With the 2026 midterm elections approaching on November 3rd, conversations about voting are happening everywhere, but if you’re under 18, you might feel like you’re watching from the sidelines. Here’s something we want you to know: You don’t need to be old enough to vote to make a difference.
Here are 8 ways you can engage in civic action in your school, community and beyond!
1) Volunteer with a nonpartisan civic organization
Nonpartisan organizations such as The Civics Center, Generation Citizen, and Youthrupters encourage students to host voter pre-registration drives in their schools and help them explore civic engagement beyond the classroom.
2) Volunteer as a student poll worker
Some states allow 16 and 17-year-olds to act as election clerks at polling places. You can check your state’s age and eligibility requirements here!
3) Write or call an elected official
Elected officials want to know what constituents think and what issues they care about, so if you’re passionate or concerned about something happening in your community, contact them via email, call, or snail mail to tell them. You can find out who your senator and representative is here. We know sometimes reaching out to someone in office can be intimidating, so if you need a script to follow, check this one out to get started!
4) Start a community project
You can address community needs without waiting for an election. If you care about food insecurity, for example, start a food drive! Or if you care about supporting the LGBTQ+ community, host an event that makes them feel celebrated and cared for. If you need funding, grant giving organizations like Riley’s Way Foundation, The Awesome Foudation, and Youth Service America can help get you started!
5) Use your social media for good
If there’s an issue you’re passionate about such as healthcare, women’s rights, trans rights, education, immigration, affordable housing, or food security, use your platform to speak out. If that’s not something you’re comfortable doing, you can also share voting resources and encourage kind conversations online!
6) Start a conversation at school
Work with a teacher or student organization like Junior State of America or YMCA Youth and Government to explore civic issues and practice respectful dialogue.
7) Help someone make a voting plan
If a family member, friend, or community member is over 18, you can double-check their registered to vote here, find their polling location, and if you’re able to safely drive, offer someone a ride to the polls.
8) Learn what’s on your local ballot
You can find what’s on your state and local election ballot here. Research these election and ballot questions and consider how these different proposals might affect your school or neighborhood, so that even after the November 3, 2026 election you can stay informed.
