Action Index

Why This Matters:

Local leaders make decisions that affect your daily life. When you know who they are and how to contact them, you can speak up, ask questions, and push for change.

What to do:

Download the Who Holds Power? information worksheet and follow the steps to get to know your leaders.

Why This Matters:

Understanding how government operates gives you the power to make informed decisions, advocate effectively, and hold leaders accountable.

What to Do:

Download the short How Government Works cheat sheet. Share widely!

Why This Matters:

Good local journalists keep communities informed, expose injustice, counter disinformation, and strengthen democracy.

What to Do:

1. Subscribe to a local outlet such as a newspaper, alt-weekly, neighborhood blog, or public radio. Follow their stories critically, using criteria like the News Literacy Project’s guide so you know they’re trustworthy.
2. Follow good reporters on social media and engage with their stories.
3. Share their work to help amplify good reporting.
4. Support financially if you can, even small monthly donations help keep them going.
5. Send tips or ideas to help reporters cover what matters in your community.

Why This Matters:

Knowing what’s happening in your community = power. Most decisions that affect your daily life are made locally.

What to Do:

1. Look up your city/town/county or school district website.
2. Search for a newsletter, alerts, or meeting notices and sign up for the ones most relevant to you.
3. Skim each email. You don’t have to read every word. Just keep an eye on key topics, such a upcoming meetings, budget and finance updates, curriculum, school operations, staffing, etc.
4. Share important updates. Help keep your circle informed.
5. If you’re concerned about something, reply to the email or go to a meeting. Your voice matters, and your reps need to hear it.

Why This Matters:

Summertime is budget season for most school districts. Meanwhile, the national government just largely dismantled the Department of Education, upending the budget for school districts across the country. They’ll now have to cut or make up funding for low-income programs, help for disabled kids, and teacher training programs. As citizens, we deserve to help shape a new plan.

Meanwhile, the national government doesn’t control what we teach our kids or how we use the funds we have. School budgets shape most things locally—everything from teacher salaries to curriculums to building repairs to student programs.

Following the money is one of the clearest ways to see your community’s values in action. It’s also a great and timely way to get involved in local politics right now.

What to do:

1. Find out who controls the education budget in your area. It’s usually your local school board or district leadership. Check your district’s website for meeting info.
2. Attend or watch school board meetings. Look for proposed cuts, additions, or controversies. Agendas and recordings are often public, so if you can’t go in person, you can follow along from home.
3. Read the proposed budget. It’s not always user-friendly, but you can skim for big-picture stuff. How much is going to instruction, facilities, or administration? Are there plans to address programs affected by national budget cuts and layoffs?
4. Ask questions. Reach out to a school board member or local education group if you’re unsure what something means, or if you have something to advocate for.
5. Talk about it with others. Post what you learn, ask other parents or neighbors what they think, and encourage folks to get involved—especially during budget season.

Why This Matters:

Local orgs are often doing the deepest, most consistent work, and they need supporters like you.

What to Do:

1. Ask around or search online. Try “[issue] + advocacy + [your city].” If you follow people talking about those issues on a national level, you can ask about local groups in the comments.
2. Follow their socials and newsletters to stay up to date on events, wins, and needs.
3. Introduce yourself by sending a DM or email to say hi and ask how to support.
4. Attend an event, repost their work, or donate.
5. Bring friends. More voices = more power.

Why This Matters:

Voter suppression is real. Knowing your rights helps protect your access to the ballot, and others’ too.

What to Do:

1. Look up your state’s voting laws. The rules can vary by state, so it’s essential to know what applies to you. Start by visiting NASS or your state’s Secretary of State website for official info.
2. Learn what to do if you’re challenged at the polls. Sometimes, there can be confusion or challenges when you vote. Some states offer provisional ballots or have hotlines for help. Make sure you know what to do ahead of time, just in case. 👉 Example: The Election Protection Hotline
3. Know what ID is required to vote. Certain states require a photo ID to vote. Double-check what’s accepted in your state to avoid surprises on election day. 👉 Find out more at the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
4. Share this info with others. Help your friends, family, and neighbors stay informed by texting, posting on social media, or organizing a quick info session with neighbors and people you spend time with—text them to confirm they know their state’s voting laws, and direct them to the NASS site. The more people who know their rights, the stronger our democracy becomes!

Why This Matters:

Two huge things happened recently, on the same weekend.

In Minnesota, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed, and a sitting state senator and his wife were wounded in a targeted political attack. The gunman had a long hit list of elected officials. It was calculated, terrifying, and part of a growing pattern of political violence in the U.S., especially against women in public life.

But also: Millions of Americans rose up in “No Kings” protests to demand change. Even though the gunman was still at large in Minnesota, the military was called to Los Angeles, and extremist groups talked about shooting protesters, the day was overwhelmingly peaceful.

In other words, millions of people channeled their fear and their outrage into action. And into JOY.

Writing down why you want to fight can help you process how you feel. It’s OK for your feelings to change. But fear and anger are also powerful motivators. And so is joy. Writing down your “why” can help you connect your feelings to your deepest values.

Read more.

It’s also OK for your energy to change. It’s been a very, very long six months. However you’re able to show up on any given day is (you guessed it) OK. Civic engagement is a practice, not a program. Do it as much or as little as you can, when you can. It will absolutely get easier over time.

And research shows that just writing it down makes you more likely to take action later!

What to do:

Why do you care about the state of the nation, your state, your town or city right now? Why do you believe it needs to change? Have your feelings changed since the beginning of the year? Write it all down.

You don’t have to share your why with anyone. Just say it to yourself. Remind yourself that your voice is still important, especially now.

Why This Matters:

Misinformation and disinformation weaken democracy, fuel division, and target vulnerable communities. Stopping the spread helps protect truth.

What to Do:

1. Learn the difference. Misinformation is false info that’s spread unknowingly. Disinformation is false info that’s spread on purpose to mislead or manipulate. Knowing the difference is the first step in stopping the spread because it allows you to call out disinformation when you see it.
2. Check before you share. Before you hit that share button, make sure the info is legit. Use trusted fact-checking websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or Media Bias/Fact Check to verify the facts.
3. Look for red flags. Pay attention to signs that something might not be true:
   – All caps or emotional language designed to make you feel a certain way.
   – Unverified sources or no citations to back up claims.
   – Clickbait headlines that don’t match the content.
   These are big red flags that the info might not be reliable.
4. Stop the spread. If you come across false info, don’t share it. If it’s something from a friend, politely let them know when they’ve posted something untrue. Call out disinformation when you spot it, and point out why you think so. We’re all in this together, and it’s important to support each other in sharing reliable info.
5. Follow reliable sources. Find and follow journalists, news outlets, and organizations committed to fact-based reporting. Stay up to date with information you can trust, and share that with others to keep the truth flowing.
   👉 Some reliable sources: Reuters, BBC, NPR.

Why This Matters:

Millions of people are eligible but unregistered, especially young folks, people of color, and new movers. You can make it easy for someone to take that first step.

What to Do:

1. Ask gently. Try: “Hey, have you checked your voter registration lately?” or “Need help getting registered?”
2. Use a trusted site. Send them to vote.org, nass.org/Can-I-Vote, or your state’s official election site.
3. Offer to do it together. You can walk them through it, answer questions, or even register side by side on your phones.
4. Know the deadlines. Look up key dates for registration, early voting, and mail-in ballots in your area.
5. Celebrate their power. Tell them: “This is a big deal. Your voice matters.”

Why This Matters:

It’s really easy to stay inside a political bubble. We’ve all probably already muted or unfriended folks in our feeds. Our algorithms and AI engines tell us exactly what we want to hear.

Our bubbles are comfy places, but they’re also echo chambers. If we don’t listen to opposing opinions and try to find common ground, we all become more polarized. And nothing ever changes.

Talking through opposing opinions to find common ground can be uncomfortable, but you don’t have to sacrifice your values. In fact, being willing to listen can actually help you stand more strongly in your own truth. Even if you can’t agree on anything today, it’s worth doing.

What to do:

Read our guide to having these discussions on She Should Run. It has three ways to approach these convos while staying true to what’s most important, with tips and real-world examples from the politicians who do it well.

If you’d like to dive deeper, you can take free courses at Braver Angels, or Weave: The Social Fabric Project. Both orgs specialize in this kind of talk.

Why This Matters:

Showing gratitude is the best way to tell leaders that they’re on the right track. Research shows that positive feedback has a far greater impact on future behavior than negative feedback does.

Meanwhile, being grateful has its own benefits. It can be easier (and more fun!) to voice than criticism. And, according to several studies, it’s also good for your mental and physical health.

What to do:

Reach out to someone who’s helped your community. This could be an elected official like a city council rep or school board member, or a leader like a librarian or an organizer. Even if most people around you don’t share your values, you can always find someone who’s doing the right thing.

In a few words, tell them how they helped and why it mattered. You can mail a letter, send an email, or post a kind comment to their social media. You can also say thank you in person next time you see them—or even in public at a town meeting.

Want a script? We’ve got you:

• Email
• In person or on social
• At a meeting

Why This Matters:

Small businesses are the backbone of many communities and often run by women, immigrants, and people of color.

What to Do:

1. Pick a few places you love. Think local restaurants, shops, salons, etc.
2. Write honest, kind reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, or wherever people search.
3. Mention specific things, like good service, community support, quality products.
4. Take a photo! Visuals make your reviews more engaging.
5. Tag them on social to help them get more visibility and love.
6. Encourage others to do the same. Maybe even make it a monthly habit.

Why This Matters:

Your voice can amplify causes and shift how your community understands what’s at stake.

What to Do:

1. Pick 1 or 2 key issues you care about. Narrowing your scope helps focus your voice.
2. Follow trusted sources on the issue. Think local journalists, reputable news orgs, advocacy orgs.
3. Share with context. Add a personal note about why it matters to you.
4. Use your platforms. Instagram stories, Facebook, Threads, group chats—they all count.
5. Be consistent. Even a weekly post helps normalize engagement.

Why This Matters:

If platforms go down or algorithms shift, you still need to be able to reach your people.

What to Do:

1. Start a spreadsheet or phone list with name, email, phone, city.
2. Gather contacts at events or meetups, and ask permission to follow up.
3. Segment by interest/location, so you can reach the right folks quickly.
4. Keep it safe and private. Only share with trusted organizers.

Why This Matters:

Stronger communities start with conversations. When neighbors know and trust each other, they can organize, respond to crises, and build power together.

What to Do:

1. Say hello more often. Start with small talk. Build connection through casual check-ins.
2. Suggest a group chat. Use text, email, or WhatsApp to stay connected, share updates, or ask for help.
3. Start a simple meetup. Try “porch chats,” “stoop hangs,” or a monthly potluck. Keep it casual and consistent.
4. Offer a few prompts. Ask, “What’s something you wish we could change in our neighborhood?” or “What’s a need we could help meet together?”
5. Keep the door open. Let the group grow naturally, and make sure it feels welcoming for all kinds of neighbors.

Why This Matters:

Ten years from now, we’ll likely be asked: What did you do in 2025?

We’re living through history, and it’s moving fast. How you show up now will shape the future more than you think.

Talking through opposing opinions to find common ground can be uncomfortable, but you don’t have to sacrifice your values. In fact, being willing to listen can actually help you stand more strongly in your own truth. Even if you can’t agree on anything today, it’s worth doing.

What to do:

This action is introspective. We’ve put together some journal prompts that can help you get clarity on your own motivations, hopes and fears, and the impact you want to have on the future. Download the exercise.

Why This Matters:

Local officials make decisions that affect everything from housing to schools to safety. Showing up to town halls is one way to hear what’s happening, and to remind decision-makers that their community is paying attention.

What to Do:

1. Find an upcoming town hall meeting. Look on your city or county website, your representative’s social media, or local newsletters.
2. Text a friend or neighbor to let them know you’re planning to go and ask if they want to come with you. Events can feel less intimidating together.
3. Bring questions or just listen. You don’t need to speak to be involved. Just being there helps you build understanding (and power).
4. Compare notes afterward. Grab a coffee or take a walk after to talk about what stood out, and what questions you still have.
5. Keep the momentum going. Plan to attend again or follow up with an email to your rep.

Why This Matters:

Strong communities are built on small, everyday acts of care. Offering help to a neighbor builds trust, deepens connection, and makes sure no one is left to handle life’s challenges alone.

What to Do:

1. Start small and close to home. Think of one neighbor, coworker, or school parent you already see often. A simple “How are things going?” can open the door.
2. Name what you can offer. Whether it’s driving to school, picking up groceries, watching kids for an hour, or helping with tech stuff, offer something specific and doable.
3. Make it mutual, not transactional. This isn’t charity, it’s community. Be open to swapping support, like “I can drive Mondays if you’ve got Fridays.”
4. Use tools to make it easier. Shared calendars, group chats, or even a neighborhood whiteboard can help coordinate things like carpools or errands.
5. Keep showing up. Acts of support can be one-time, but relationships are built over time. Keep checking in, offering help, and accepting it when it’s your turn.

Why This Matters:

Most nonprofits are small and community-based, but federal funding cuts are hitting them hard. You might not think you have enough time or money to help. But these groups are in crisis. Sharing your skills on your schedule could be a lifeline.

Community nonprofits not only help with everything from healthcare to the arts, they also spur the local economy and boost civic engagement. This crisis is real, and it’s frightening: In all but two of the 437 congressional districts in the US, the typical nonprofit can’t cover expenses without government grants. At the state level, between 60 and 80% of nonprofits are at risk. More than 10,000 nonprofit employees have already lost their jobs. Foundations are scrambling to help bridge the gap, but they can’t keep up.

TL; DR: Many local orgs won’t survive without help. Doing what you can, no matter how small, matters a lot. And bringing in a friend lets you be a multiplier for a group that’s doing meaningful work. It’s more fun that way, too.

Oh, and by the way: This kind of giving back has an amazing effect on your mental and physical health.

What to do:

Find a local nonprofit org that’s helping with the issues you care about most to see what they need. Look at their website to see how they’re looking for help.

Often, groups need money or goods. But many orgs also need as much in-person help. And you might be surprised by the variety of skills that will help. Pretty much every organization has skill gaps. Your own superpowers are desperately needed somewhere, be they spreadsheet wizardry to a deep familiarity with TikTok to budding leadership skills.

Whatever works for your life is how you should show up. (No guilt here!) Feel free to drop an email to share what you’d like to do together. A simple “I really admire what you’re doing and want to help!” goes a long way. Then, you can add a quick line about the skills and time you have to offer.

Next, make sure it’s legit before you contribute your time and money. You can do that by:

• Asking friends and colleagues if they have experience with the org
• Checking its tax-exempt status at IRS.gov
• Using an independent verifier like CharityNavigator or Guidestar
• Working with verified partners of your local government

Once you’ve found an org you like working with, tell someone else about them and invite them in.

Why This Matters:

Libraries are one of the last truly public, accessible spaces, and librarians are everyday heroes of democracy and education.

What to Do:

1. Visit your local library branch. If you don’t already have a card, now’s the time! Just bring a photo ID and proof of address.
2. Explore what they offer. Beyond books, libraries often have workshops, free internet, meeting rooms, and voting info.
3. Say thank you. A little appreciation goes a long way. Try something like: “Hi, I just wanted to say thanks. I really appreciate all the ways you support the community, especially how welcoming this space is.”
4. Share the love. Post online, tell a friend, or bring someone with you next time.

Why This Matters:

Mutual aid is solidarity, not charity. It builds power and resilience in community.

What to Do:

1. If you’re not familiar with mutual aid or how it works, take some time to learn about the benefits and how they are run. Mutual aid is about helping people, especially during times of crisis or when formal systems fall short. Instead of charity (where help only goes one way), mutual aid is reciprocal. Search local directories or hashtags: Try “[your city] + mutual aid” on Google to start.
2. Once you’ve found a group, don’t wait for a request. Reach out and ask how you can help—delivering groceries, raising funds, organizing supply drives.
3. If you can’t find an existing group, start small. Team up with a few friends or neighbors to meet a need.
4. Use shared tools such as Google Docs, group chats, Venmo—whatever makes coordination easy.
5. Make it sustainable. Check in with each other and avoid burnout.

Why This Matters:

These support local farmers, reduce your carbon footprint, and strengthen local economies.

What to Do:

1. Search for CSAs or co-ops near you. Use LocalHarvest.org or ask at your farmers market.
2. Price it out. Sometimes fresh, local food comes with sticker shock. Some places allow smaller or less frequent orders. If not, splitting a food box with friends is a time-honored tradition.
3. Choose your share. Some are weekly produce boxes, others offer meat, eggs, or bulk staples.
4. Spread the word. Share photos, recipes, and your supplier to get other people interested.
5. Get involved: Some co-ops let members help with decisions or operations.

Why This Matters:

Bringing people together to talk about what’s happening locally builds trust, sparks ideas, and helps folks feel less alone. When we talk, we organize, and when we organize, we win.

What to Do:

1. Keep it casual—this isn’t a lecture or a panel. It’s a space to connect, listen, and reflect. You can meet in a coffee shop, someone’s living room, a library room, or even over Zoom.
2. Choose a time + place. Weekends or weekday evenings work best for most folks. Pick somewhere accessible (physically and geographically), and aim for about 60–90 minutes max.
3. Invite 5–10 people to start. Text friends, DM folks you know care, post in a neighborhood group. Invite people with different perspectives, but shared values.
4. Set a loose agenda. You don’t need a full plan, just a few prompts to guide the convo.

Try: “What’s something happening locally you’ve noticed lately?” or “What do you wish more people knew about our community?”

5. Create a welcoming space. Kick things off with gratitude and ground rules (like “no judgment” and “listen more than you speak”). Let people pass if they’re not ready to talk.
6. Take notes + listen for patterns. What themes are coming up? Who’s fired up about what? Are there resources, orgs, or follow-up steps people want to explore?
7. Share next steps, or just plan the next chat. You don’t have to start a campaign the same day. Sometimes the best thing is just: “Let’s meet again in a month.”
8. Stay connected. Create a group chat, email thread, or WhatsApp group to keep the energy going.

Why This Matters:

Reading together deepens understanding, and doing it in community turns ideas into action. Whether you’re learning about housing justice, school policy, or democracy itself, a civic-focused book club is a great (and fun) way to grow your awareness and build relationships.

What to Do:

1. Pick your format. Will you meet monthly? In person or virtual? How many people feels good?
2. Choose your first book. Start with something accessible, relevant, and conversation-sparking (rec below!)
3. Invite people to join. Think friends, neighbors, coworkers, or post in local online groups you trust.
4. Keep it casual, not academic. Use open-ended questions and real-life connections. Encourage honesty and curiosity.
5. Make space for action. After each book, ask: What can we do with what we’ve learned? Even a small next step counts.

Recommendation: “Abundance” by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson

Why This Matters:

Creating a space to connect, align values, agree on projects, and speak to your elected representatives together adds to your collective power. It’s also a powerful act of welcome to new neighbors.

What to Do:

1. If your neighborhood doesn’t already have a formal nonprofit or informal association, start one by calling a meeting.
2. Announce the meeting on Facebook and put up flyers in the neighborhood.
3. Determine the goals and meeting frequency of the association. Agree upon goals that you think will strengthen and connect your neighborhood.
   Example: “To hold an annual yard sale, organize community clean-ups, and act as an updated platform for info on local businesses and elected officials.”
4. Select your information platform, such as a webpage or Facebook group and keep it updated regularly.
5. Consider formalizing your association as a nonprofit org and collecting membership dues so you can better fund projects.
6. Once you get going, invite your local elected officials to meet your neighbors and hear your concerns.

Why This Matters:

Voting can be confusing or intimidating the first time around. Helping a younger or first-time voter get confident and informed makes a lifelong difference in their civic journey.

What to Do:

1. Reach out to someone new to voting. Think teens in your family, recent grads, or younger coworkers. A simple “Have you voted before?” can open the door.
2. Walk them through the basics. Share how to register, find their polling place, and what to expect on a ballot. Use trusted sources like vote.org or your state’s election site.
3. Help them research candidates + issues. Show how to find nonpartisan guides or attend candidate forums together.
4. Talk about why it matters. Share why you vote, and invite their thoughts. Keep it personal, not preachy.
5. Follow up. Check in on key dates (registration deadlines, early voting, etc.) and celebrate when they vote!

Why This Matters:

Disasters demand leadership. Not just from the government, but from us. From women who already hold their families and communities together.

Right now, the federal government plans to cut $1 billion of funding for FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and shift disaster support to states. It also aims to cut 25% of the budget for NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These cuts would take effect this winter, after hurricane season ends. The result could be less warning about severe weather and fewer resources when a crisis happens.

That’s scary. But preparing ahead is one of the simplest things you can do to make your home and your community more resilient.

What to do:

1. Talk to your local elected officials.
   You can bring this up in town hall meetings, write to your officials, or contact your city or county department of emergency management. A few things to ask:
   • State: If FEMA assistance is reduced, how will the state fill the gap?
   • Local: What’s their plan for being disaster-ready? What emergencies are they preparing for? Is the crisis plan changing this year? How can citizens get involved? Are there any workshops available for neighborhoods or workplaces?
2. Train up to lead in a crisis.
   By learning basic skills like first aid, fire safety, light search and rescue, and coordination with emergency responders, you can act effectively without slowing down official efforts.

   CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) trains citizens in these skills. It’s currently run through FEMA but offered locally. Some cities also offer similar programs called NERT or NET, which focus on neighborhoods. If nothing like this exists where you live, take a first aid class and ask your local officials if they’d consider starting one.

   Read about the 6 ways to prepare your community for a disaster in our resource center.

Why This Matters:

The environment is changing fast. Last week, the International Court of Justice called climate change an “urgent and existential threat.” We’re at an inflection point both as a planet and a nation. This moment matters. We can’t do it all, but we can all do something. And the most important work happens right where we live.

And while it affects everyone, it hits women and girls hardest, especially in rural areas. Getting kids involved can make them more environmentally responsible, creates role models for girls to speak out, and shows them you care about their future. It also helps them (and you) with mental and physical health, That’s not only crucial; it’s actually fun.

Not everything gets fixed by volunteering or changing your habits. We need real policies and better infrastructure. And with recent cuts to federal environmental protections, we need action at the state and local level. Talking to your representatives is key.

What to do:

1. Join a neighborhood cleanup.
   Join or organize a volunteer cleanup of your neighborhood or a local park. It gets you outside, helps you meet neighbors, and makes your immediate surroundings better
2. Volunteer to plant and grow.
   Plant trees or help create small green spaces like pocket parks and rooftop gardens. Look for local groups or join bigger efforts like The Nature Conservancy.
3. Make and share sustainable choices.
   • Food waste:. Ask restaurants about their food waste, and amplify sustainable restaurants. Join or speak up for public composting and local food programs like CSAs and farmers markets.
   • Fast fashion: Join or organize clothing swaps, repair workshops, buy nothing groups, and buy local/buy sustainable events.
   • E-waste: Ask your employer about their policy on e-waste recycling policies and advocate for an e-waste hub to your elected officials.
4. Educate and help research.
   Join a “citizen science” research group like wildlife counts. Connect teachers to local environmental groups for their classes. Organize or join environmental workshops for your job or neighborhood. Parks are always looking for volunteers, too. The National Environmental Education Foundation is a great place to start as a citizen educator or scientist!
5. Try driving less.
   Walking and biking help cut emissions. If you’re in a car-centric area, join carpools, try reducing trips, buy used, and advocate for bike lanes and better public transit.
6. Advocate to officials.
   Choose one or two issues that matter to you, like clean energy or better public transit, and reach out to your local reps. To make a bigger impact, talk to people in your community so that you’re reflecting a whole group. Yale has some really great tips on how to lobby to protect the environment, or you can join a group like Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
7. Support women leaders.
   Women leaders do more for the environment. Support and amplify women in business or government who are taking action. Find out who’s running for office locally and where they stand on the environment. Talk to them early so they know it matters to their constituents.
8. Include kids.
   Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or neighbor, your actions send a message, so bring kids along. Let them see care in action, and support those helping them protect the planet and shape the future. Involve your kids so that they see role models taking action for their future. Support their teachers and community leaders.

Why This Matters:

Across the country, local journalism is nearly extinct. NPR and PBS are a crucial way to get news about things like state policies, civic leaders, and local events. In rural areas, NPR is often the only emergency alert system.

Last week, the federal government canceled all funding to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for the first time since they created it in 1967. The clawback means layoffs and scalebacks, and may put some local stations out of business.

Meanwhile, millions of families rely on PBS for free educational shows that help kids with STEM skills, reading, standardized testing results, and social development. Without them, families will likely go online, where good content is hard to find. Too often, it’s brain rot at best and actually dangerous at worst.

But there’s hope. These stations and shows don’t rely just on federal funding. They also depend on private donors, especially corporations and philanthropic foundations—but also (famously) including viewers and listeners like you. If you can donate, now is absolutely the time. Every dollar helps. And donating with the kids in your life can start a lifelong habit of generosity, and help everyone’s physical and mental health.

What to do:

1. If you can, donate to NPR and PBS. You can direct your donation nationally or to your local station(s).
2. Keep listening to and watching public media. Follow national and local stations on social media and stay engaged.
3. Tell your representatives how you feel. Urge them to restore funding. Protect My Public Media is a simple tool you can use to contact them.
4. Support other types of local journalism. Subscribe to a local newspaper, neighborhood blog, or alt-weekly. Send tips or thoughts to help stretched reporters cover your neighborhood.
5. Fight misinformation. Follow news stories critically, using criteria like the News Literacy Project’s guide to stay literate.
6. Patronize your local library and thank a librarian.
7. Talk to the kids in your life about what’s happening. Show them things like Arthur’s Instagram message. Donate with them, if you can.

Why This Matters:

The SAVE Act could block up to 21 million eligible Americans from voting, including many married women who have changed their names, newly naturalized citizens, and people who don’t have easy access to documents like passports or birth certificates.

What to do:

The SAVE Act was passed by the House and has gone to the Senate for a vote. The time to act is right now.

1. Read the AP news article or the 19th news article.
2. Find your senator’s number using ballotready.org.
3. Get a script from the League of Women Voters.
4. Call your senator to express concern.

Why This Matters:

Barely anyone goes to these meetings. Seriously. On average, it’s only 9% of Americans. Which means that the decisions that shape our cities, towns, and schools most often get made by the same tiny group of people.

When you walk through that door, you’re shifting the dynamic, just by being there. You get a front-row seat to how decisions are getting made—and how you might be able to influence them.

What to do:

Check your city or town’s website (or Google) for meeting dates and mark your calendar. Clear your calendar and set a reminder so that you’re committed to showing up!

Bonus Action: Share the dates with a friend

Why This Matters:

Local elections often have a bigger daily impact than national ones, and they’re easier to influence.

What to Do:

1. Find your local election calendar. Start by visiting your city or county’s election office site to get the official dates for registration, early voting, and election day.
   👉 Check out your local Election Office Finder for quick access.
2. If you’re planning on voting early or by mail, know those forms of voting are currently at risk. Follow your local news and check your election calendar at least a month before each election to make sure that nothing’s changed. And spread the word about changes as loudly as you can!
3. Mark all important dates. Add key dates to your calendar, registration deadlines, early voting windows, and election day, whether it’s a digital or paper calendar. You don’t want to miss out on voting because of a scheduling slip.
4. Set reminders. Don’t just add the dates—set a reminder a week before each key milestone. This will give you time to do your research, confirm if anything has changed, check the candidates, and make your voting plan.📱 Use apps like Google Calendar to get automatic reminders.
5. Share with others. Make it easier for everyone in your circle to stay on track. Create a shareable calendar or post reminders on social media to encourage friends and neighbors to vote. The more informed people are, the bigger the turnout!

Why This Matters:

Petitions show public support, raise awareness, and can push institutions to respond or change.

What to Do:

1. Choose a platform you trust, like Change.org or MoveOn.
2. Read the full description to make sure it aligns with your values.
3. Send to your group chats, post to your stories, and explain why it matters.
4. Look for next steps. Some campaigns lead to events, calls, or fundraising efforts.
5. Celebrate wins, even small ones, and keep the momentum going.

Why This Matters:

Democracy doesn’t sustain itself. Grassroots organizations are doing the work to protect voting rights, fight disinformation, and engage underrepresented communities, but they need resources to keep going.

What to Do:

1. Find an organization that aligns with your values. Consider groups like Fair Fight, the Brennan Center, League of Women Voters, or a local civic org in your state.
2. Give what you can. Even $5 helps, and recurring donations give orgs more stability to plan long-term.
3. Encourage others to match you. Make it a small challenge among friends: “I just gave $10 to [org]. Who’s with me?”
4. Follow their work. Stay informed by signing up for updates or following them on social media.
5. Look for non-monetary ways to support, too. Share their posts, volunteer, or help them host events in your area, or a local civic org in your state.

Why This Matters:

Yard signs build name recognition, spark conversation, and show public support, especially in low-turnout local elections.

What to Do:

1. Pick a candidate you truly support, especially in down-ballot or local races.
2. Contact their campaign and ask for a sign or find local distribution spots.
3. Place it somewhere visible, like your front yard, window, fence, etc.
4. Post online about why you support them.
5. Talk to your neighbors. Yard signs open the door for real convos.

Why This Matters:

Money helps candidates reach voters, especially in local races where every dollar makes a big difference.

What to Do:

1. Find a candidate or cause you believe in at the local, state, or national level—whatever speaks to you.
2. Research their platform to make sure it aligns with your values.
3. Give what you can. Even $5–$20 can help cover materials, ads, or meals for volunteers.
4. Set up a recurring donation. It helps campaigns plan better.
5. Encourage others. Share the donation link and a few words about why you’re supporting them via email or on social media.

Why This Matters:

Elected officials and business leaders actually track messages. A few personal notes can shift priorities.

What to Do:

1. Pick one specific issue per letter, such as supporting inclusive policies, affordable housing, or a specific piece of legislation you care about. This will give your message more weight. Many representatives ask you to identify your topic from a list on their contact forms.
2. Find contact info. Use your city/county website or tools like Common Cause’s elected official lookup.
3. Write a short, clear message. State who you are, what you care about, and what you want them to do.
4. Be polite, direct, and personal. Telling your story can be powerful. Why do you care about this?
5. Send it and follow up, especially if you don’t get a response.

Why This Matters:

Letters and op-eds are a great way to raise awareness, influence public opinion, and show community concern.

What to Do:

1. Choose a topic such as a local issue, election, policy, or candidate.
2. Keep it short, ideally 150–200 words for letters and 500–700 words for opinion pieces.
3. Link it to something current or upcoming. Editors are more likely to run your piece if it’s timely.
4. Include your contact info, as most papers require it to publish.
5. Find your local paper’s submission page. Try “Submit a letter to the editor [your city]” on Google.
6. If it gets published, share it widely!

Why This Matters:

Phone calls are one of the most impactful ways to make your voice heard, especially to federal electeds.

What to Do:

1. Use a tool like 5 Calls. It gives you numbers, scripts, and issues.
2. Pick 1 or 2 issues. Don’t overwhelm yourself.
3. Make the call. Say your name, zip code, and what you’re asking for. Keep it short.
4. Record it. Log the call with the org if possible, or keep a tally to see your impact grow.
5. Invite friends to join. Host a 10-minute call sprint together.

Why This Matters:

Writing letters together builds momentum and makes civic action feel less overwhelming and more fun. Whether you’re contacting elected officials, local leaders, or voters, doing it as a group boosts impact—more voices, more messages, more power. It also creates space for conversation, connection, and collective energy around the issues that matter to your community.

What to Do:

1. Pick one issue you all care about. Be specific—choose something like supporting inclusive policies, affordable housing, women’s health, etc. Make it unique to your community. The act of doing this as a group can be very rewarding.
2. Find contact info by using your city/county website or tools like Common Cause’s elected official lookup.
3. Write a short, clear message. State who you are, what you care about, and what you want them to do.
4. Be polite and direct. Personal stories can be powerful.
5. Send and then plan to meet as a group together to discuss any replies. Plan to write again, especially if you don’t get a response.

Why This Matters:

Showing up consistently for a cause builds deeper relationships, stronger skills, and bigger impact. Organizations thrive when people stick around, and your community benefits when you do, too.

What to Do:

1. Find a cause that speaks to you. Ask yourself: What gets me fired up? What do I wish more people cared about? Think about local food banks, tutoring programs, housing orgs, voter outreach, or community gardens.
2. Look for groups doing that work. Search online, ask around, or try directories like Idealist.org or local volunteer hubs. Social media can be a great place to find grassroots orgs, too.
3. Reach out and ask how to plug in. Send a short message or fill out a volunteer form. Ask what kind of help they need most, how often, and if they offer any orientation.
4. Commit to a regular rhythm. Whether it’s once a week, once a month, or every other Tuesday, consistency is what counts. Add it to your calendar and treat it like something you get to do, not have to do.
5. Invite a friend or neighbor to join you. Volunteering is more fun (and less intimidating) with someone by your side, and it doubles your impact.
6. Reflect and grow with the experience. Ask questions, listen to people’s stories, and learn about the bigger systems at play. Volunteering is one of the best ways to get grounded in what your community really needs.

Why This Matters:

Protest is a powerful way to show solidarity, raise awareness, and demand change. Showing up together makes your presence louder, safer, and more impactful.

What to Do:

1. Find an upcoming protest. Start by checking local news sources, social media, local advocacy organizations, or trusted partner sites for protest announcements.
   👉 You can often find pro-democracy events through organizations like Indivisible and sites like mobilize.us.
2. Form a group. Reach out to friends, coworkers, neighbors—anyone you trust who cares about the same issue. It’s always more empowering (and safer) to show up together.
3. Plan your logistics. Coordinate details like where and when you’ll meet, who’s driving, what signs you want to bring, and what snacks or water you’ll need. Having a plan helps everyone feel more comfortable and confident.
4. Know your rights. Make sure you and your group understand your legal rights when attending a protest.

👉 Check out the Protesters’ Rights Guide from the ACLU for what to know before you go.

5. Show up + speak up. Be present, be respectful, and listen to the people most affected by the issue. Raise your voice in solidarity and support—but always center the communities you’re there to uplift.
6. Follow up. Afterward, share your experience with others. Post photos (with consent), talk about what you learned, and keep the energy going by supporting the cause in other ways—donating, volunteering, or organizing future actions.

Why This Matters:

Elections can’t happen without poll workers, and many places face shortages. Being a poll worker helps make voting more accessible, secure, and fair.

What to Do:

1. Look up your local process. Visit nass.org/Can-I-Vote or your state’s election website.
2. Apply early! Some areas have long onboarding times, so the sooner you sign up, the better.
3. Attend training. You’ll learn the rules, your responsibilities, and how to support voters on election day.
4. Spread the word and encourage others (especially young or multilingual folks) to apply too.
5. Be a calm and welcoming presence. Your role is to help everyone vote safely and confidently.

Why This Matters:

Local boards and commissions shape policy, funding, and priorities, from housing to education to the environment. These roles are often open to the public and often go unfilled or underused.

What to Do:

1. Find your city or county’s list. Search for “boards and commissions + [your city]” in Google.
2. See what’s open and look for vacancies or upcoming appointments.
3. Apply. Most roles require a short form or letter of interest.
4. Do your homework. Read meeting notes or agendas from past meetings to understand what the board does.
5. Show up ready to serve. You don’t have to be an expert, just a community member who cares.

Why This Matters:

Campaigns run on people power. Whether it’s knocking doors, making calls, or stuffing envelopes, you’re helping elect someone who reflects your values.

What to Do:

1. Pick a candidate you believe in. Local races especially benefit from community support.
2. Sign up to volunteer. Visit their website or DM them. They’ll be thrilled to hear from you.
3. Choose your role. Not into phones? Try text banking, events, or behind-the-scenes help.
4. Bring a buddy. Volunteering is more fun (and less scary) with a friend.
5. Stick with it! Even a few hours a month can make a huge difference, especially close to election day.

Why This Matters:

Local leaders are more accessible than most people realize, and hearing from residents helps them understand real community needs.

What to Do:

1. Look up your local reps. City council, school board, county supervisor—find out who represents your neighborhood.
2. Send a friendly, short invite. Something like: “Hi! I’m a resident in your district and would love to buy you a coffee and hear your take on our community’s biggest needs.”
3. Come with curiosity, not an agenda. Ask open-ended questions like “What are you hearing most from constituents?” or “What’s something you wish more people understood?”
4. Listen, ask follow-ups, and thank them for their time. You don’t need to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation. Your lived experience matters.
5. Share what you learn. Post about the conversation (with their permission) or talk with neighbors about what stood out.

Why This Matters:

Representation matters. You understand your community, and someone like you needs to be in the room where decisions are made.

What to Do:

1. Start small by researching roles like school board, city council, or your neighborhood advisory group.
2. Attend a training. Check out groups like Run for Something or Emerge America.
3. Talk to current or former candidates and ask what it’s really like. Build your support team. You don’t have to do it alone!
4. If not now, plan ahead. Set a timeline and start getting involved with local issues and meetings.
5. Don’t forget to use She Should Run’s resources to get started!