Election 2020: Civic Engagement Resources

At Apartment List’s core, we are committed to supporting our communities. We encourage everyone - not just our renters! - to participate in the civic engagement process. This can include voting if you’re able to do so, volunteering in the community, or simply learning and sharing about the process. That’s why we’ve put together a list of civic engagement resources (inspired by Brookings.edu) to ensure communities feel informed and make their voices heard this election season.

Covid Disclaimer: We recognize that this is an unprecedented time. We are not suggesting that anyone put themselves or their families in situations that are uncomfortable or that jeopardizes their health. These resources have been adjusted to be Covid-friendly, however, each community is taking different measures to protect their residents and we encourage you to find out what are the safest and most accessible ways to engage in your local community.

Stay Informed

Before sharing that headline, ask yourself: Is this news source trustworthy? Check out these non-partisan, nonprofits committed to fact-checking.

• Factcheck.org will check the factual accuracy of statements made by political leaders.
• Get unbiased facts and information on politicians and candidates at Votesmart.org.
• Learn about your rights by digging into the constitution. The National Constitution Center has a line-by-line breakdown that features interpretations from scholars of the history and meaning of each article.

Vote, Vote, Vote!

If you're eligible to vote this year, prepare to vote by registering ahead of time! Also, be sure to research your local ballot and polling place. Find out what you need to bring with you to vote, as many states require identification. If you didn’t know already, this year’s election will be held on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2020.

• Make sure you’re registered to vote at Vote.gov, and find out the deadline for voter registration.
• Voting by mail? Track your ballot’s location at BallotTrax.
• Speaking of absentee ballots, pay attention to deadlines for absentee ballots and follow all the instructions carefully.
• Talk to your friends and family about voting. Make it an event by going to the polls together (virtually or at a distance)!
• Volunteer to register voters through organizations like League of Women Voters and When We All Vote.
• Volunteer at a polling place. Visit the Election Assistance Commission for more information, or simply reach out to your local registrar.
• Don’t be scrambling on November 3rd. Vote early if you can!

Participate in your Local Community

Civic engagement goes beyond just voting on Election Day! There are several ways you can stay engaged within your community and make your voice heard in the coming weeks and beyond.

• Reach out to your elected officials to discuss issues and share your views. Writing a letter, sending an email, or giving them a call are the best way to connect.
• If you’re inclined, advocate for civic education in school since not all states require it. Look into the CivXNow campaign for more.
• Join a political campaign. Volunteer for your preferred candidate.
• Advocate for digital citizenship education with DigCitCommit.
• Join the Parent-Teacher Association at your local school.
• Connect with the local school board. The National School Boards Association has plenty of tips on how to get involved.
• Plant a tree or garden in your community, or identify a problem in your community and work with your neighbors to fix it - from neighborhood street sweeps playground refurbishment.
• Volunteer! Volunteer Match will help you find groups in your area. Some ideas on where to get started: museum, public library, soup kitchen, food bank, community garden, or community center.
• Serve as a juror. Citizen jurors are necessary for our judicial system.
• Shop local and support small businesses.
• Volunteer to help veterans. The USO is a good place to start.

Get social

Remember, civic engagement doesn’t have to be an individual activity. Get together with family and friends (safely, of course!) and make it fun!

• Host or attend a (virtual) debate watch party.
• Support companies who share the same values you believe in.
• Go out and have conversations with your neighbors - even if they hold different beliefs than you.
• Use your social media presence to elevate yours and other’s voices.
• Introduce friends and family to shows or documentaries on topics affecting your community.