Young people are one of the most under-invested voting groups in the country. Nearly 50% of young Americans are not registered to vote, and many who don’t participate say it’s because they don’t know how, don’t have the time or transportation, or don’t think their vote matters.
We want to help overcome these obstacles because when registered, young people turn out at high rates and have the power to swing elections! In 2020 86% of registered young voters cast a ballot, and in 2025 they were the only age group to swing left, delivering decisive progressive wins across the country.
Our summer intern Avalon Tate (an upcoming Ellsworth High senior) has been helping us reach young voters, by going out into communities where they are. To help us gain traction, we’ve partnered with Donuts + Democracy – a pro-democracy, pro-choice org focused on engaging, educating, and empowering young voters, one donut and one conversation at a time.
Avalon recently held two events – July 4th Independence Day celebrations in Bar Harbor and The Soulbenders Concert and Dance Party at the Deer Isle Hostel on July 25th. They handed out over 30 dozen donuts across the events, helped register new young voters, and had some really great conversations.
Who knew a free donut and “hot people vote” sign could be such a fun, powerful conversation starter?! This is just the beginning! Know of an upcoming event that might be a good fit for this? Let us know!
