Don't feel like your voice counts? Here’s how you can turn up the volume

You have the power to make a difference in your community. While it doesn’t always seem that way, your voice really does count. Don’t believe us? Keep reading to discover how you can turn up the volume to make sure that your voice is heard. 

Use the power of your vote 

I’m sure that we’ve all felt as though our vote doesn’t count. How can one vote impact an election, whether it’s at the federal or local level? But if so many of us feel that way and end up not voting, then we’re all giving up the collective power of our votes. By using your voice to vote, and encouraging others in your community to participate too, then you’re amplifying your voice as well as others’ voices. Remember: your vote does matter. Even if you can’t vote, you can still help make a difference. 

It’s also helpful to remember that elected officials were elected because they made certain promises during their campaigns. Use your voice to hold these politicians accountable. 

Campaign for a candidate 

Is there a candidate you believe can help make positive changes in your community? This is your sign to join their campaign! By joining a campaign, you’re not only supporting a candidate, but you’re also using your voice to increase awareness about the candidate. As IGNITE alumna Emily Kaplan says, “By volunteering or working on a campaign, YOU can play a major role in electing more women.” 

Learn more about IGNITE women’s firsthand experiences working on campaigns here. 

Advocate, advocate, advocate 

Legislative advocacy is one of the most effective ways to turn up the volume, and the power of your voice. In fact, an IGNITE high school chapter in Dallas advocated for free menstrual products, like pads and tampons, at their schools. As a result of their hard work and dedication, they helped make these essential products free at all high schools and newly built middle schools in the entire school district. That’s the power of advocacy. Learn how you can get started here. 

If you’re a college student, you can even advocate for change on campus, like how former IGNITE intern Cameron Tiefenthaler created an initiative to reduce food waste at Miami University. Ready to activate your advocacy? Join us for our upcoming bootcamp here. 

Join a board or commission 

Did you know that there are thousands and thousands of boards and commissions you can join? You’re bound to find a board or commission that speaks to you. From the arts and culture board to school boards to women’s boards, joining a board or commission is a great way to make a lasting impact on your community. 

There are many IGNITE women currently serving on school boards across the country, making a difference in how school boards make decisions that affect students directly. Check out this Q&A with IGNITE alumni to learn more about what their experiences as board members taught them. 

Whichever path you choose, just remember that IGNITE is always here to support you and amplify your voice. If you’re thinking about running for office one day, make sure to register for Run Now and get our Six-Step Guide to Running for Office so we can help accelerate your path to elected office!