Citizens all over the nation are wondering,
What else can I do to help my nation, state, and community other than prayer and vote?
The answer? SO MUCH!
The answer? SO MUCH!
Use this page a go-to place to know what you can actually DO as a Responsible Christian Citizen. And remember, God has never brought us "this far" that we can't go back. Redemption is still possible. Join the effort of other patriots who are stepping up to the need and saying: This is my time to serve my country. Here I am! Send me!
How?
Can anyone tell me HOW to play a role in making things better?
1. Start Local (no matter the topic)
2. Get Informed - and choose to stay informed 3. Seek out who the Leaders are; contact them 4. Participate in Meetings (just attending matters!) |
5. Invite others to join you
6. Spread the information 7. Repeat |
Tip: Not sure? Try googling for the information. Or contact your Township or City Clerk Office.
Remember: civic engagement is a process, a marathon, a journey, not a sprint or a one time action item.
Remember: civic engagement is a process, a marathon, a journey, not a sprint or a one time action item.
Build a Foundation
Know the Basics of Your RightsSadly, most Americans don't even know our basic rights. And if you are one of the few who do - there is nothing wrong with refreshing your memory. Here are some basics for the refresh!
The US Constitution Hillsdale College on the Constitution Prager University on the First Amendment |
Recognize Where You LiveIt is easy for us to look to Washington DC and want to change things. But are we influencing the area that is the easiest, first? Our neighborhoods? Our County Leadership?
Use a website like this one in your state to find out who your elected leaders are, what school district you are in, and what Judge represents your area. It will help! > Look up your area here: www.michigan.gov/vote - go to Voter information tab at the top, type in your info and on the right hand side look for your district. Get to know your community |
Take On the Township or City WardA man traveled through the US, visiting from Europe in the 1800's. Unbeknownst to him at the time his observations of our nation would have prophetic meaning. He saw then what we need to see now: our TOWNSHIPS (the smallest local region of government) or CITY WARDS (or similar, depending on State) is where the REAL power lies.
Form a Township or Ward Team: I wrote this Township Packet - use it! Read Alexis de Tocqueville on Townships Citizen Engagement in townships |
More Resources on Townships (City Wards)
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Serve Your Community
ChurchesOftentimes places of worship don't know what their freedoms are. It's also possible Church Leaders would welcome having someone serve as a Church Liaison: a person who agrees to keep track of important things int he community and then inform the church body.
Did you know you can register voters at church? You can hand out non-partisan voter guides? Engage your church Launch Pews to the Polls Launch Black Robe Regiment Biblical Rationale for Being Engaged Host a Citizenship Sunday |
BusinessesBy supporting our local economy we can help our community thrive. By supporting businesses, it gives employees jobs to meet the needs of their families.
Find out from local business owners how you can support them in these uncertain times. Generation Strategies: How to Influence the Marketplace |
Fellow PatriotsYou might be surprised at how many fellow citizens are eager to link arms with you, to go with you to a meeting, to help you host an event. They just need to be asked.
As you recruit others to join you, create email lists, sign up forms, and keep one another in the loop! |
How Do I Influence My School Board?
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Get to Know - and Be Known by - Leaders
Run for OfficeRunning for office is no small matter.
It is a holy endeavor. It is also something to consider from all angles. Consider running for a local office before you do a state office; volunteer to serve on a citizen board before you run for office; attend the meetings before you run to get on the board. These tips and more are crucial to approaching elected office with the right spirit and attitude. Also, remember you run to serve, not be served. Do it if you are the best person for the district but if someone else steps up that is better, do what is best for the people and step back. Your time may come later. Campaign and other Resources Questions to ask when running for Office Run for Office - Michigan Excellence in Public Service She Holds the Key |
Attend Public GatheringsOftentimes elected leaders have town halls, or coffee hours. This is a great time to hear first hand what they are up to and to ask questions.
Not sure when they are happening? Contact their office and ask to be put on their email list to get notified. Also watch their social media platforms. Let them know you are eager to take part of the opportunities your Elected Leaders are offering. |
Contact ThemContact your elected leaders. Send them emails, call their office, text them, message them on social media.
Be respectful. Kind. Clear. Concise. Make your message personal (no form letters) and professional. Let them hear your questions and give them time to respond. |
A Plethora of Resources:
“Nothing is more wonderful than the art of being free, but nothing is harder to learn how to use than freedom.” |