Nothing is more fundamental to our democracy than the right to vote. However, there was a time in our nation’s history when many, including women and Black people, did not have access to the ballot and/or were prevented through legal means and violence from exercising this right. Through a series of constitutional amendments and legislative actions implemented over the years, all Americans now have the right to equal, unencumbered access to the ballot. However, voter suppression efforts are not a thing of the past. Since the 2013 Supreme Court ruling to remove federal oversight of state voting rules, there has been a surge in state bills to limit voter access.
We seek to support the ability of the nonprofit sector to engage historically underrepresented populations and communities that have documented low voter turnout. Engagement will occur within and beyond election cycles to ensure every eligible voter has a voice in our democracy at all levels.
Specifically, we are interested in supporting the following activities:
- Non-partisan voter education, including efforts that teach residents about the electoral process and how government works and build knowledge about the candidates and relevant issues in any given election cycle.
- Non-partisan registration and turnout, including Get-Out-The-Vote events, door-knocking/ canvassing, and efforts to eliminate logistical barriers to voting. This includes ensuring that voters have accurate polling location information and transportation to the polls.
- Voter access: Advance reforms that preserve existing rights and support inclusive ballot practices.
| GRANT CYCLE | APPLICATION DEADLINES |
|---|---|
| Spring grant cycle | Feb. 26, 2024 by 5 p.m. (for funding decision by June 6.) |
| Fall grant cycle | July 11, 2024 by 5 p.m. (for funding decision by Oct 30.) |
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CONTACT: Michelle McMurray Vice President, Program and Community Engagement mcmurraym [at] pghfdn.org (mcmurraym[at]pghfdn[dot]org) |
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CONTACT:
Tika Good Program Associate goodc [at] pghfdn.org (goodc[at]pghfdn[dot]org) |
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