County Elections Division seeks poll workers for November election
Need for civic-minded citizens to help throughout the county in November
Kelly Davis and her fellow Contra Costa volunteers have an early wake-up call on Election Day, but most of them don’t mind the long hours.
Each of them has their own unique reasons for being poll workers. And the Contra Costa County Elections Division is looking for civic-minded men and women to join them on our Election Day Team.
Davis, of Orinda, is motivated to get out of bed on Election Day and stay energized throughout the day to raise money for foster children.
Monnie Segelke of Danville and Maude DiVictor of Richmond both find helping voters fulfilling and they enjoy seeing neighbors and familiar faces at their polling places.
Julie Southern of Antioch, like several volunteers, grew up in families who emphasized civic participation.
“I enjoy being involved in the democratic process, and there’s no better way than being a poll worker because you’re involved in the nitty-gritty,” Southern said. “I can say I’m a part of history.”
The November 2016 election will be an historic one as a new President and state Senator are elected. Voter turnout is anticipated to be the highest it has been in years.
As a result, Contra Costa Elections has more opportunities for volunteers to be poll workers than in years past.
No prior experience is necessary and training is provided. Poll workers receive a stipend for their service, which includes attending a mandatory two-hour training and working 6:00 am to 9:00 pm on Election Day.
Participants receive a special pin denoting their service. Serving as a poll worker does not have any bearing on Social Security or unemployment status, according to State law.
County and State employees are encouraged to apply.
Bilingual citizens are strongly encouraged to volunteer. High School students who are at least 16 and have a grade point average of 2.5 or above may serve as poll workers. Student poll workers will receive a stipend and may fulfill community service requirements.
For more information, visit www.cocovote.us or text “cocoteam” to 28683.
Those who might be interested should email eo@vote.cccounty.us or call the Elections Division at (925) 335-7800, option 1.