Why Your Vote Matters
by Emilee O’Brien, Director of Policy & Advocacy
The first time I entered a voting booth, it felt like stepping into a secret, new world. I recall my mother guiding me into the small, cloaked space of the booth in my elementary school cafeteria. As the curtain closed behind us, I watched her finger hover over the array of buttons while she gently explained that each one represented someone who could impact our community’s future. Her thoughtful explanations and the gravity of that moment ignited a lifelong interest in policy and advocacy within me. Since then, I’ve embraced voting not just every four years, but in every primary, run-off, and special election, driven by the values she instilled in me and a deep commitment to shaping our community’s future.
If you are reading this blog, you have already demonstrated your commitment to working to solve the big issues in our community. By supporting the work of United Way of Greenville County, you are actively participating in the community engagement that makes a difference for families every day.
While the programs and direct services that nonprofits provide are critical in moments of need, we will never program our way out of poverty. We need both programs and policy change to eliminate the conditions that allow poverty to persist. As a nonpartisan organization, United Way of Greenville County advocates for issues that directly impact our neighbors. While we will never tell you who to vote for, we want to make sure that you are registered to vote and have the resources you need to cast your vote with confidence.
YOUR VOTE = YOUR VOICE
Your vote is one way to share the vision you have for our community.
Did you know that half of the twelve Greenville County school board seats are on the ballot this November? Or that every member of our State House and Senate will be decided by the voters?
Local elections impact policies we interact with daily, like the condition of the roads we drive on, the incentives for small businesses that employ our loved ones, where new housing is needed and developed, and the resources each child needs to reach their full potential in our schools. While national news often focuses on what happens in Washington, D.C., the spotlight excludes our city, county, municipal, and state legislative happenings—but local government has the most tangible impact on our day-to-day lives.
The most vibrant community is one where every voice helps build it. By showing up for local elections, you ensure that your voice contributes to shaping a community that reflects your values and priorities and enables everyone to prosper. It’s on us to create the community we wish to live in, starting on Election Day. I hope to see you at the polls!
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Save the date. Make a plan to vote on November 5, 2024.
- Check your registration status.
- View your sample ballot.
- Visit scvotes.gov or vote411.org for more voting resources.
- Sign up for our policy and advocacy updates.
