[Charleston, SC–September 20, 2018] Through an interactive education + action formula based curriculum, called “Voting 101”, the Harris House is looking to work with teen/young adult-based groups and organizations.
“Youth and young adults are change agents. When they are educated and empowered, they can not only ‘be the change’ but, effectively spread important messages to those around them and in their communities to help elicit change” said Marjorie Harris, Co-Founder and CEO of The Harris House.
#BeTheChange is an initiative to get local organizations to educate and register their teen/young adults for “Voting 101.” The Harris House, is calling out to educators, mentors, and community leaders to help them provide residents of the tri-county (14 or older) with the tools and resources to become informed voters.
“It is very important to prepare young people to be engaged citizens and voting is one of the most important tools we have to create change,” she expressed.
In partnership with Charleston County Board of Elections and Voter Registration, “Voting 101” is a 90-minute workshop that educates participants about South Carolina’s voting requirements and process. At the conclusion of the each workshop, eligible participants 17 or older, will also have the opportunity to register to vote or update their voter’s registration information.
In the last year, The Harris House has worked with over 100 teens /young adults through “Voting 101.” Their goal for 2018 is to educate and register 200 new voters by October 6.
With less than two weeks until the end of the campaign, The Harris House have already registered over 60 new voters. However, local organizations are still needed to #BeTheChange, and register their youth for “Voting 101”—before the midterm elections on November 6
Harris said she once read, “‘elections have consequences and elections matter’. If we don’t exercise our right to vote we forfeit our ability to have people in office that represent the things that are important to us. All elections are equally as important from local elections on up.”
“Voting 101” is aligned with The Harris House’s mission and programs that focus on: Education, Health Awareness, and the Community. The program is free of charge and designed for individuals 14 and older. Individuals must be 18 years old by October 6 to register to vote.
For more information and to register, visit: www.lovetheharrishouse.org or email theharrishouse16@gmail.com.
“Registration for ‘Voting 101’ is just as simple as becoming a registered voter…with some fun sprinkled in,” Harris added.
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The Harris House derived from a desire of Lakeithrick and Marjorie Harris to give back to the communities that gave so much to them! The Harris House’s mission is to empower and enrich the lives of youth, families and the overall community. We strive to do this through various services, programs and resources in three distinct areas: Education, Health Awareness and the Community.