IGNITE's Blog

“IGNITE gives me the skills and confidence to walk into a room and stand firm in my convictions.”

“Why not me? Why not now? I bring a young and unique perspective and have lived through the experiences of the students in my district. I'm capable, ready, and willing to serve my community. It’s personal and it’s urgent."

“As Fellow, I had this whole community of civically-engaged people I could rely on and all these resources I could use. I lead for my little sister. As the generation after me, it’s on me to set her and all young girls up for success.”

Joining a public board or commission can be the first step in running for office and it’s easier than you may think. For this month’s Q&A, IGNITE paired up two young women who have held/currently hold positions. 

If getting involved in politics through campaign work is your goal, this is the guide for you! 

IGNITE is growing! We're thrilled to introduce you to our new team member, Jacelyn Matthews (she/her). Stepping into the role of Northeast Program Director, she brings over ten years of experience working in program development, mental health, and social services. We sat down with Jacelyn to get to know more about what motivates her.

IGNITE is growing! We're thrilled to introduce you to our new team member, Amanda Conlee (she/her/hers). Stepping into the role of Chief Operations Officer, Amanda brings 12 years of experience managing the internal operations, administration, and financial aspects of small businesses and nonprofit organizations. We sat down with Amanda to get to know more about what motivates her.

As of late May 2021, fourteen states have enacted 22 new laws making it harder to vote. Most of the new laws make it harder to vote absentee and by mail, after a record number of Americans voted by mail in November. Overall, since the November 2020 election, the Brennan Center has identified at least 389 bills introduced in 48 states that include provisions that would restrict voting access.  We must pass the For the People Act to protect and expand voting rights.

Jacelyn Matthews has over 10 years of experience working in the fields of program development, mental health, and social services.

“I have wanted to run for Congress since I was fifteen years old,” Allie Curtis says. “I would talk about this in high school and people would look at me like I had three heads.”