As part of Civic Learning Week, Frank LaRose is encouraging residents across Ohio to consider serving as poll workers during the upcoming May election.
LaRose, the state’s secretary of state, said elections rely on everyday citizens helping their neighbors participate in the democratic process.
“Every election depends on neighbors helping neighbors participate in democracy,” LaRose said. “Serving as a poll worker is a practical way to do your civic duty, learn about Ohio’s gold standard election system, and support your community.”
The Ohio Secretary of State’s Office offers several programs aimed at increasing participation and helping communities recruit poll workers.
Programs include Give a Day for Democracy, which encourages businesses to allow employees time off to work the polls, and Professionals at the Polls, where professionals such as attorneys, realtors, and social workers can earn continuing education credits for serving.
Other initiatives include Second Call to Duty, encouraging military veterans to continue serving their communities by assisting with elections, and Youth at the Booth, which allows high school students who are at least 17 years old to work as poll workers even if they are not yet eligible to vote.
Additional outreach programs include Styling for Democracy, where barbershops and salons help spread awareness about poll worker opportunities, and Work a Day – Donate Your Pay, which encourages nonprofit groups to serve on Election Day and donate their pay to charity.
The office is also partnering with breweries, wineries, and distilleries through its Raise a Glass to Democracy initiative to help promote voter registration and recruit poll workers.
Poll workers receive training before Election Day and are compensated for both their training and service.
Their duties include assisting voters, managing polling locations, and helping ensure elections are conducted according to state law.
LaRose said serving as a poll worker is a meaningful way to support fair and secure elections.
“Serving as a poll worker is a rewarding way to help your neighbors and community make their voices heard in a secure and trustworthy election,” he said.
Ohioans interested in serving can learn more or sign up through the Secretary of State’s poll worker information page HERE or by contacting their local county board of elections.
