The Work Doesn’t Stop Here: Why Year-Round Civic Engagement is Critical in Pennsylvania
Elections happen every six months. Your voice matters in all of them. #voteverysix
As we close out 2024, it’s a natural time for reflection — on the year’s challenges, successes, and the work that remains. The 2024 general election has come and gone. Some of us are celebrating victories, while others may feel disappointment over the results. No matter the outcome, one thing remains true: our civic engagement doesn’t end here. In fact, it’s just getting started.
In Pennsylvania, elections take place every six months, not just during presidential or midterm years. Local, state, and special elections happen throughout the year, and these elections shape our communities in meaningful ways.
Why Every Election Counts
While national elections get the most attention, local and state elections often have a more immediate impact on our daily lives. Here’s why staying engaged year-round is so important:
1. Local Leaders, Local Change
Positions like school board members, city council representatives, and county commissioners decide on education policies, community resources, and local laws that affect your neighborhood directly.
2. Judges and Prosecutors Matter
Judicial elections influence how justice is delivered in our state. The judges we elect make decisions on issues ranging from criminal justice to housing disputes.
3. Ballot Measures Shape Policy
Pennsylvania often includes important ballot initiatives that let us vote directly on specific policies. Missing these elections means missing a chance to shape the laws you live by.
4. Building Momentum
Consistent civic engagement helps build momentum for larger movements. Staying involved keeps important issues front and center, regardless of who holds office.
5. Building Momentum
The Pennsylvania Election Calendar
We vote (at least) twice a year:
- Primary Elections: Typically held in April or May, where we select party candidates for local, state, and federal offices.
- General Elections: Held in November, where we elect candidates to serve in those offices.
In addition, special elections can pop up any time there’s a vacant seat that needs to be filled. That’s why keeping an eye on the election calendar and staying informed is key.
Civic Engagement Year-round
Voting is just one part of the process. Civic engagement happens 365 days a year, and we need you in the fight! Here’s how you can stay involved:
1. Register to Vote or Check Your Status
Make sure your voter registration is up-to-date. PA Voter Services makes it easy.
2. Join Our Civic Engagement Team
Community Hero Action Group (CHAG) organizes voter registration drives, town halls, educational workshops, and Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts year-round.
3. Educate Your Network
Share resources and encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to stay informed and engaged.
4. Volunteer with Us
From phone banking to creating social media content, there are many ways to contribute to civic engagement.
Together, we walk the path of civic change. Let’s keep showing up.
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Let's keep the momentum going
Your voice didn’t just matter in November — it matters every single day. The changes we want to see in our communities happen when we show up consistently, stay informed, and work together.
Join CHAG’s year-round civic engagement efforts and make a lasting impact! Sign up to volunteer, stay informed, and help us build a stronger, more engaged community.
👉 Sign Up Here to be part of the movement.