My name is Katie Olsson, and in 2022, I served as an Election Protection volunteer with Common Cause – where I learned firsthand the importance of ensuring that every eligible American can make their voice heard.

I work at the polls as an election official now, but in my free time, I still volunteer with Common Cause to help recruit poll watchers for the election. Here’s why:

Before I got involved with Common Cause, I had been pretty uninvolved in politics. But after volunteering for causes like gun safety, the environment, and voting rights, I realized how critical elections are to making the changes I want to see in the world.

Volunteering with Common Cause gave me a direct way to support voters and strengthen our democracy.

On several occasions, I was able to help people find their polling places when they weren’t sure where to go or assure them they could still vote, even when they forgot their ID. It’s an amazing feeling to know you’ve helped someone make their voice heard at the ballot box.

On day one, I had everything I needed to do my job – from my t-shirt and clipboard Identifying me as an Election Protection volunteer to immediate support from the legal team back at HQ. I felt ready and prepared to help voters, no matter what challenges came up, and I know I truly made a difference for people exercising their right to vote.

As each day went on, I was moved by the dedication of the voters I encountered – from those who were voting for the very first time to those who’d made it a lifelong practice.

Each person’s determination to make their voice heard was a powerful reminder of why this work matters so deeply. Every single vote is a step toward a stronger, more inclusive democracy. And by the time the last ballot was cast, I felt a profound sense of pride – my efforts truly did make a difference.

I was there to uphold the democratic process and ensure that every eligible voter, regardless of the challenges they faced, could exercise their fundamental right to vote. And I know that with the support of people like you, we can keep making that difference, one voter at a time.

Moments like those remind me why I volunteer and why I’m so grateful for everyone who helps support our elections. Together, we are helping build a democracy that reflects and serves us all.

It costs about $50 to support a volunteer like I was not long ago — covering everything from recruitment and training to materials and support on Election Day. If you’re able to, please consider chipping in $50, or whatever you can spare, to help sponsor a volunteer and ensure every vote is counted in November.