What you can do for your country

So, a lot of people are scared this election cycle. They're not sure what they can expect, and they're praying Trump's ride is soon ending. But what if it isn't? How can we actually make a difference?

Unlike presidential elections of the past, 2016 is a year where the public has moved beyond signs, bumper stickers, phone calls and even political ads. 2016 is the year of social media, not like 2008 or 12 where the campaigns who used it best would come out on top, but where regular people representing the public have the chance to change the dialogue in our country. We're suddenly on the front lines. And we don't know what to do. And so many people think shouting a two-line FB status update is enough. They've done their part. But that's taking what should be action and substituting grandiosity and finger movement. It doesn't actually do anything.

So for those of us who actually want to play a part in our country's very important history right now, here are some things we can do. Some involve social media, some do not, some are more intensive than others, but all are something.


There are dozens of organizations looking for volunteers on the Democrat side, including women's health options, the National Organization for Women, Progressive Congress, and The Democratic National Committee at All things Democrat.

Don't forget your local and state candidates. Just as important to the country and its decisions is the Congress we vote into office to support the President. Here is a list of ways you can help within your own community, just for general ideas.

There is room for Republican action, too. You can sign up to volunteer and get sent opportunities right for you, here.

This article in Bustle has good pointers as to how to start on your political support journey, if you have time to volunteer for a campaign. It also has great, straight links to Hillary Clinton's campaign.

Volunteer match is a great way to find pressing needs right now in your area. This link is set to Los Angeles, but if you type in your area, you can personalize it for you.

Want to volunteer for Bernie? Here.

Want to make calls? This is Bernie stuff, but applicable info for any candidate if you change the text. You can also attend conference calls, events or organize your own.

Jobs and internships for Hillary Clinton.

Supervolunteers is a good way to go if you don't want to work with the campaign directly, but want to support it.

Volunteer Match has a direct number to Hil's campaign, as well, found here.

Hillary also put up a specific page for those who are simply seeking to stop Donald Trump.


The most important thing people can do, however, is to talk about it. And not in superlatives or ultimatums. And not necessarily in large groups. Talk to your relatives, your friends, your loved ones. Logically, nicely, fairly. Know the reasons why you are voting for someone, what issues matter to you, and why the record on those issues sways in favor of your chosen candidate. Understand your audience. If your grandparents are evangelicals, talking about human rights on a liberal scale will do little to convince them, and may polarize. Maybe they've seen their children get laid off or struggle economically, so hit that instead, clearly outlining how your party or candidate will help more than the others. If you can convince one person you know not to vote for Trump, you've done more than most. I know that's been my goal. So far, I've got three.

Good luck, everybody.