Many obstacles can keep people from getting to the polls on Election Day. Whether you’re a voter without a car, not able to drive, or living with disabilities, you still have the right to make your voice heard.
Studies indicate that when voters have more access to public transportation, voter turnout increases. This is why so many organizations (both partisan and nonpartisan) provide rideshare services on Election Day.
Want to help increase voter turnout for voters in need, Virginia? Consider volunteering to give rides to the polls this election season. Here’s where to start.
Volunteering through an organization
Many national and local organizations have ridesharing initiatives around election season. These groups will often have drivers complete a short training and prove their driving status. VoteRun is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that connects voters in need with free transportation to the polls.
Their website states that “VoteRun exists for a simple reason: a voter’s ability to participate should not depend on whether they can find a safe, reliable ride to the correct polling location.”
If you want to volunteer with VoteRun, complete their application; they will review it, and if accepted, you can start giving rides to the polls.
For more information on how you can start driving, visit VoteRun’s website.
Volunteering yourself
If you don’t want to go through an organization, you can volunteer to drive your friends, family members, and neighbors by asking if they need transportation.
If you see a need in your community and have a valid driver’s license, you can offer mutual aid this election season by making sure your community gets to the polls.
Need a ride?
There are plenty of resources out there if you need a ride to the polls this Election Day.
Rideshare companies like Lyft have programs to give discounted or free rides to voters in need.
Want to scoot to the polls? Lime also gives out free 30-minute rides on Election Day.
For more information on public transportation opportunities on Election Day, please check your local public transit website.
