Act Local

November 29, 2024 by Sara Hellwege1
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Whether you’re new to activism or a seasoned advocate, your voice and energy matter. No action is too small—every effort brings us closer to the future we all deserve. Together, we will create the future we believe in—a community where our values are lived, our families thrive, and the next generation has the opportunity to succeed.

The following is a list of suggestions–NOT a to-do list. Simply choose any 3 items to complete now. Then, save this list for future reference. Make a goal of taking one action a month or put some items on your 2025 Bingo Card.

Vote

Voting is Step 1 in participating in democracy.

Hold Officials Accountable

Let’s normalize asking, “What districts do you live in?”

  • Know your districts and who represents you–from president to alderperson. Find out here.
  • Write or call your representatives to let them know how you feel about an issue.
  • Want better representation? Consider running for office. Start preparing today.

Challenge Harmful Legislation

The 2025 Missouri Legislative session begins January 8. Legislators may pre-file bills on December 1. You’ll find our calls to action on particular bills in our newsletter or on Instagram and Facebook.

  • Submit written testimony for a public hearing in support of or in opposition of a bill.
  • Call your state representative and state senator about voting on a bill. 
  • Sign petitions. Gather signatures. Volunteer for campaigns.

Show Up for Your Community

One of the biggest challenges for an organization is getting people to show up–especially ones of all ages. In addition to our events, commit to attending at least one other local community event a month.

  • Attend town halls, school board meetings, and other community meetings. Bonus points for speaking out on an issue.
  • Join your township club. Find your township here.

Stay Informed

Signing up for newsletters or following organizations on social media is an easy way to stay informed.

  • Follow your elected officials on social media regardless of party. 
  • Visit Missouri House of Representatives and Missouri Senate to learn about the bills your legislators sponsored, track their progress, see the hearings schedule, submit written testimony, watch hearings or what’s happening on the floor, and more.
  • Sign up for newsletters from your mayor or county council member and capitol reports from your state legislators. Go to their official websites for more info.
  • Missouri Independent is a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization covering state government, politics, and policy. 
  • St. Louis Public Radio covers a lot of local and state government, politics, and issues.
  • Share our posts to help others stay informed.

Care for Your Neighbors

These local organizations are just some of the many in our region that care for our neighbors and support vulnerable communities. Consider volunteering your time or donating today. Also, save the date for our MLK Day Service Project.

  • Abortion Action Missouri: Missouri-grown, pro-abortion organization taking action for abortion access and reproductive freedom for everyone.
  • ACLU of MO: Defending the rights for equality, liberty, and justice for all.
  • Affton Food Pantry: Provides food assistance in South County.
  • Forces for Food: Feeding St. Louis area veterans and active-duty families.
  • International Institute St. Louis: Provides opportunities for immigrants and refugees to thrive in order to create a welcoming, prosperous, and healthy region for all.
  • Missouri Abortion Fund: Provides financial assistance for Missouri residents who cannot afford the full cost of abortion care. 
  • PROMO: A statewide organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ equality through legislative action, community education, electoral politics, and grassroots organizing.
  • St. Louis Area Diaper Bank: Provides diapers and period supplies throughout the St. Louis Metro area.

Sara Hellwege

Sara is a transplant from Pennsylvania, a mom of two boys, a volunteer on local Democratic campaigns, and an advocate for Parkinson's disease. She contributes content to South County Democratic Club's website and social media pages.


One comment

  • Dave Conant

    December 2, 2024 at 5:37 PM

    This is an excellent resource and I’m new to the organization. How can I arrange to get this regularly?

    Reply

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