Why Civic Engagement Matters
Civic engagement means being involved in the decisions and activities that shape our communities. It’s about making sure your voice is heard—whether that’s at the ballot box, at a town hall, or by simply speaking up about issues that affect your neighborhood. When residents come together, they can influence housing policies, improve local services, and build stronger, safer communities.
What Civic Engagement Looks Like:
- Voting: From local school boards to statewide elections, your vote matters. Every ballot cast helps shape Utah’s future.
- Attending Meetings: City council, school board, or housing authority meetings are open to the public. This is your chance to hear what’s happening and share your thoughts.
- Volunteering: Helping with food drives, clean-ups, or community events builds connections and strengthens the neighborhood.
- Speaking Up: Write to elected officials, sign petitions, or share concerns with housing management—your input has power.
Remember: Civic engagement isn’t just about politics—it’s about creating the kind of neighborhood where you and your family can thrive. Every small action counts!
We wish you good health and much happiness.
OCTOBER
RESOURCES
A few more resources for our UNPHC EdX topic of the month:
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
✅ What You Can Do Right Now (Concrete Steps)
- Check your registration status & register if needed. Go to vote.utah.gov to register, update your address, or confirm you’re still active.
- Get your ballot early. Once mail ballots go out, you’ll have the option to vote by mail or drop your ballot at a secure drop box: VOTE411+1
- Mark your calendar. Get reminders for October 24 (registration deadline) and November 4 (election day).
- Attend local meetings. Start with your city’s council meetings, town halls, or your public housing’s tenant meetings.
- Join a neighborhood or tenant committee. Help set priorities for your community (safety, playgrounds, clean-ups).
- Volunteer & network. Use sites like JustServe to find short-term volunteer roles in your area: userve.utah.gov
- Reach out to your representatives. Even a short note, email, or phone call about issues you care about (e.g. affordable rent, public transit, utilities) can make a difference.
📆 Upcoming Opportunities & Important Dates (Utah) Here are some key elections, meetings, and local ways to take action in the coming months:
November 4, 2025 – Municipal General Election Many cities and towns in Utah will hold local elections (city council, mayor, school board, etc.).
October 24, 2025 – Voter Registration Deadline (by mail) for Nov. Election Last day to register and still get a mail-in ballot. If you’re not registered yet, do it soon! Use vote.utah.gov or contact your county clerk.
October 21–31, 2025 – Early Voting Period
October 22–23, 2025 – Advocacy & Civic Engagement event Hosted by Utah Nonprofits. Utah Nonprofits Association Learn skills for community organizing, advocacy, and working with nonprofits.
Ongoing — Utah Civic Boards & Commissions
You can apply to serve on local boards, commissions, or volunteer in city programs. Go to Utah.gov and enter your interest in the search bar. This is a direct way to shape policies (for parks, planning, cultural affairs, etc.).
