Be the Face of the League in Our Community!
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do! Through voter registration and community outreach events, the League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus (LWVMC) connects directly with community members, provides trusted election information, and empowers people to make their voices heard.
Over the years, our direct community outreach efforts have helped tens of thousands of people register to vote. For many community members, these events are their first introduction to the League, and our volunteers play an essential role in building relationships, earning trust, and making democracy accessible to everyone.
Whether we're at a summer festival, back-to-school celebration, community resource fair, nonpartisan rally, food pantry, or reentry event, our volunteers are on the front lines of our mission: Empowering Voters. Defending Democracy.
What Do Our Volunteers Do?
Our voter registration and outreach volunteers represent the League at events throughout the community. Depending on the event, volunteers may:
- Help eligible community members register to vote or update their voter registration.
- Share information about voting rights, election deadlines, and upcoming elections.
- Answer questions about the voting process and help people find trusted election resources.
- Distribute League materials, including VOTE411 resources and voter education information.
- Introduce community members to the League and opportunities to get involved.
No previous experience is required! We provide training, resources, and guidance to help you feel prepared and confident.
What Makes a Great Outreach Volunteer?
We're looking for friendly, enthusiastic individuals who enjoy connecting with others and believe in the importance of civic participation.
Be welcoming and approachable. Our volunteers engage with people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Sometimes that means starting a conversation rather than waiting for someone to approach your table.
Be informed and willing to learn. You don't need to know everything about elections! We encourage volunteers to stay familiar with current voting information and use trusted resources. If you don't know an answer, it's perfectly fine to say, "I'm not sure, but let's look that up together!"
Be respectful and encouraging. Our role is to offer information and opportunities, never to pressure someone into registering or voting. Every interaction should be positive, respectful, and supportive.
Remain strictly nonpartisan. When representing the League, volunteers must not advocate for or against political parties or candidates. Our nonpartisanship is essential to maintaining the trust of our community, protecting our organization's reputation, and ensuring that everyone feels welcome at our table.
Respect our community partners. Volunteers must follow all rules, guidelines, and instructions provided by event organizers, host sites, and their staff.
Have fun! Many of our outreach opportunities include festivals, music, food, and community celebrations. We want our volunteers to enjoy themselves while making a meaningful difference!
How to Get Started
Step 1: Complete Volunteer Training
All voter registration and community outreach volunteers must attend a League volunteer training or watch the training recording before participating. Our training covers the basics of voter registration, important election information, volunteer responsibilities, and what to expect at community events.
Watch the Volunteer Training Recording
Step 2: Sign Up for an Opportunity
Once you've completed your training, you're ready to volunteer! Our SignUpGenius page lists upcoming outreach opportunities, including the event location, date, time, and available volunteer shifts.
View Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities & Sign Up
All outreach opportunities are reviewed and approved by the LWVMC Operations Manager and/or Vice President of Voter Services.
Step 3: Prepare for Your Event
Approximately 24–48 hours before your scheduled volunteer shift, you'll receive a detailed email from the Operations Manager with event-specific information, instructions, and any important updates.
Before your shift, please:
- Dress comfortably and in nonpartisan attire. Comfortable walking or tennis shoes are recommended.
- Bring a fully charged cell phone.
- Review your event email for arrival instructions, parking information, and any changes.
- Check the weather and prepare accordingly. Most events take place rain or shine unless otherwise communicated.
- Arrive on time and be ready to engage with community members!
Event Supplies & Important Responsibilities
The League provides the materials needed for outreach events. Depending on the event, supplies may include voter registration forms, absentee ballot applications, clipboards, pens, informational handouts, table signs, and a tablecloth. Larger events may also require a folding table, chairs, or an outdoor tent.
At least one volunteer per shift must be responsible for picking up and returning event supplies. Volunteers should coordinate this responsibility in advance with the Operations Manager.
Handling Completed Voter Registration Forms
Completed voter registration forms, absentee ballot applications, and other election-related paperwork must be handled carefully and returned promptly.
One designated volunteer per shift will be responsible for either:
- Placing all completed forms securely back into the supply box for the Operations Manager to collect and process.
- Delivering completed forms directly to the appropriate Board of Elections, as coordinated with the Operations Manager.
Volunteers must follow all training instructions and applicable submission deadlines to ensure completed forms are handled appropriately.
After Your Volunteer Shift
Your feedback helps us understand our community impact, improve future events, and recognize the incredible contributions of our volunteers. We ask all volunteers to complete the following two forms after their shift:
1. Volunteer Event Feedback Survey - Tell us about your experience, including community engagement, voter registration activity, questions received, and any feedback or suggestions. Complete the Volunteer Event Feedback Survey
2. Volunteer Hours Reporting - Help us track the time our volunteers dedicate to supporting democracy! These hours are important for organizational reporting, grant funding, and recognizing volunteer contributions. Report Your Volunteer Hours
Thank You to Our Volunteers!
Our voter registration and community outreach efforts would not be possible without the dedication, generosity, and enthusiasm of our volunteers.
You are often the first friendly face someone sees when learning about the League, registering to vote, or seeking information about an election. Every conversation, every question answered, and every registration opportunity helps build a stronger, more informed, and more engaged community.
Thank you for being the face of the League and helping us make democracy work for everyone!