Engaging the Next Generation: Leveraging Election Season to Connect with Youth

Election season is upon us, and with that comes the onslaught of debates, partisanship, misinformation and too much content being thrown at us daily.

Regardless, I love election season. I remember how excited I was for the first election I got to vote in after I turned 18. I woke up excited for that day, and I have voted in every election since. I understand the value and importance of voting. I’ve been tagging along to go vote with my parents since I was a kid. I was lucky in that way, being introduced to voting from an early age.

This is perhaps why I am always puzzled when I read a new article or watch a video going on and on about how young people just simply don’t care. To say it plainly, what’s being reported does not in any way match my lived experience as a young person.

There is a big misconception that youth don’t care – that they are apathetic.

Well, I am here to tell you the opposite is true – young people do care. They care a lot.

Especially during election season.

The challenge I have been noticing for many organizations is a difficulty with actually engaging people, specifically young people in this context, during this peak time of interest.

Organizations have to find ways to attract, engage and create spaces and dialogues to listen to youth and what they have to say.  

Easy peasy? Right? I wish.

Often, organizations overlook the importance of engaging youth at a time when they want to participate. Youth want to discuss the most pressing issues of the election, and they want their voices to be heard by both your organization and the candidates who want to represent them. They are ready to talk, but they don’t know where to go or who to turn to, to share their ideas or opinions.

Interested in getting ahead of the game?

Then it’s time for your organization to become the platform where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns.

How can your organization bridge the gap with youth this election season?

If you play your cards right, so to speak, you can be a facilitator who bridges the gap between youth in your community and those running to be in power. Not only will that elevate youth and their voice, but it will also boost your organization, your credibility, and bring your most pressing issues to the forefront of political discussions.

Here are a few ideas of what that can look like:

• Organize a community conversation night and invite the candidates running for representative in your riding. Make it a priority to market the event to youth.

• Host a focus group on a specific topic and share the findings with the candidates in your riding.

• Engage with your committees and ask them to identify the upcoming issues your community may face.

• Be the facilitator, be the driver of these dialogues on issues that matter most to you.

  
  

Young people are looking for these opportunities and spaces to engage with politicians and your organization, so create the space for them.

Now more than ever, your organization has the opportunity to serve as a bridge between politicians and your community. The issues you address and work to resolve deserve national attention—there’s no doubt about that. But how can you ensure that your community's voice is heard amidst all the noise? This challenge is similar to how many young people feel most of the time.

The solution for both is to create spaces where individuals can share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas for change. While you serve as this bridge, these initiatives can also be beneficial for your organization. You can gain valuable insights into how youth are feeling, what concerns them, and what solutions they envision for larger problems—all of which can enhance your work.

By showing that you care about their perspectives and are committed to providing them with a platform to share their voice, you will build trust within the community. As young people see that, their support for your organization is likely to grow.

So, give it a try. If you need any help, reach out.

And of course, don’t forget to vote.