Charleston Co. Approves Over $76,000 for New Voter Registration Program

Charleston Co. Approves Over $76,000 for New Voter Registration Program

In a recent move to enhance voter participation, Charleston County has approved over $76,000 for a new voter registration program. The funds were green-lit during the Charleston County Council’s finance committee meeting on Thursday.

Targeting the Younger Generation

The primary objective of the program is two-fold – recruiting college students as poll workers and providing a course to educate them about civic engagement. Officials from the Charleston County Board of Voter Registration and Elections highlighted the need for younger involvement, noting that the majority of their poll workers are aged 65 and above. The aim now is to inspire the younger generation to step up and contribute to the democratic process.

“If you actually want them to learn about politics and how we elect our politicians, you actually have to put them out there,” stated Morgan Walsh, a student from the College of Charleston, commenting on the initiative.

Financial Aspects and Utilization of Funds

The program has been funded by a grant amounting to $76,861 from the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. The funds will be used through till January 31, 2026. Additionally, a match amounting to 10% will be sourced from the savings budget of the Board of Elections and Voter Registration.

Charleston County’s Feat

In a notable achievement, Charleston County has been listed among fourteen recipients nationwide chosen for this grant. The program will include the development of a specialized curriculum focusing on civic engagement, primarily centering on the duties of poll workers and the necessity of enlisting fellow students to participate in the electoral procedure.

In the first year, the board will partner with schools to introduce the curriculum, with hopes of seeing an increase in poll workers by the second year. Consequently, students will gain not only knowledge but also practical experience regarding the voting process.

New Generation of Poll Workers

Isaac Cramer, the Executive Director for Charleston County’s Board of Voter Registration and Elections, conveyed the significance of ushering in new poll workers from the younger generation.

“One of the things we hear a lot from young people, is their vote doesn’t count. And this program is going to help you show how your vote is counted, and how it does matter. Being intimately involved in that it’s going to make a lasting impact. And then a part of that is going to give them life skills,” Cramer explained.

This initiative represents a significant stride in promoting civic engagement and political awareness among younger generations, ensuring they are well-prepared to partake in the vital process of voting.