As non-profit organizations that are trusted in the community, have social missions, are visited daily by individuals who are often underrepresented in the democratic process, and are nonpartisan, Community Health Centers are an effective place to engage voters. This page contains information and resources to assist Community Health Centers in registering and educating voters and making civic engagement a part of their ongoing activities. Community Health Vote is an initiative of the National Association of Community Health Centers in partnership with the Michigan Primary Care Association.
Important 2010 Election Dates:
August 3, 2010
Michigan Primary Election (last day to register to vote in the primary was July 6)
October 4, 2010
Last day to register to vote in the General Election
November 2, 2010
General Election (polling place hours are 7 am to 8 pm)
Education Materials:
Michigan Voter Registration Application (English)
Michigan Voter Registration Application (Spanish)
Order voter registration applications in bulk for free from the Michigan Secretary of State by calling 1.800.292.5973; they are available in a variety of languages.
Instructions for Completing the Michigan Voter Registration Application
Where & When Do I Vote?
Explains how registered voters can find their location, what they need to bring with them to the polls, and voting by absentee ballot.
Voter Registration: It's As Easy as 1-2-3-4
Follow these four easy steps to integrate voter registration into your Health Center's daily activities.
Register to Vote Here Poster
Post in patient waiting areas to let everyone who enters your Health Center know that they can register to vote at your Health Center.
Press Release Template
Submit this to local media, include in your Health Center's newsletter, post on your web site and Facebook Page to let the community know that your Health Center is offering the service of voter registration.
Tally Sheet
If your Health Center is registering voters, please track the number of completed voter registration applications that you submit to the clerk's office and share those numbers with Dana Hughes at dhughes@mpca.net. Having data to show that Health Centers are effective places to register voters is very important.
Voter Participation for Nonprofits
August 12, 2-3 pm
A web training event hosted by Nonprofit Vote will review best practices for conducting voter registration, education and get out the vote activities at your agency or in your community.
Health Center Guidance:
BPHC Guidance on Voter Registration at Health Centers
Health Center Election Activities Do's and Dont's
A Voter Participation Starter Kit - for Nonprofits and Social Service Agencies
Partners & Other Resources:
Michigan Voter Information Center
National Association of Community Health Centers
Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network
Michigan Participation Project
Michigan League of Women Voters