Charleston, SC – October 16, 2024 – We Are Family, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ youth and marginalized communities, has officially launched its “Chosen Buddies” voter mobilization campaign. This initiative seeks to energize and engage young voters, particularly those aged 18-24 from historically underrepresented groups, in South Carolina.
The “Chosen Buddies” campaign is focused on providing essential voter education, resources, and peer support to ensure that every eligible voter can participate in the upcoming elections. Volunteers, or “Buddies,” will assist their friends, family, and community members in navigating the voting process, creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
Key Campaign Features:
- Voter Education: In partnership with Be The Ones, We Are Family will host two virtual nonpartisan workshops covering voter registration, polling locations, and key election issues. Participants will be entered into a raffle for a $150 prize. Sessions are scheduled for:
- Tuesday, October 22nd at 6:30 pm
- Wednesday, October 30th at 6:30 pm To register, visit: https://forms.gle/xYzWWDJpEvsQnqSQ7
- Transportation Assistance: The campaign offers a $50 PayPal stipend for LGBTQ+ voters aged 18-24 who face challenges accessing polling locations. Those needing assistance can fill out a request form here: https://forms.gle/xYzWWDJpEvsQnqSQ7.
- Buddy System: Participants are encouraged to vote alongside a friend or “chosen family” member, making the process more inclusive and empowering.
- Social Media Engagement: The campaign will use social media to raise awareness, encouraging voters to share their experiences using the hashtag #ChosenBuddies and tagging We Are Family on Instagram (@wearefamilycharleston) and Facebook (WeAreFamilyCharleston).
“We believe that every voice matters, especially those from communities that have been historically silenced,” said Domenico Ruggerio, Executive Director of We Are Family. “The ‘Chosen Buddies’ campaign ensures that no one feels alone or overwhelmed in the voting process. We want everyone to feel safe, supported, and ready to make a difference.”
We Are Family is calling on the community, local businesses, and organizations to support the campaign through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word. By working together, the campaign aims to amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ youth and other underrepresented groups in shaping the future.
