Community Organizations Unite to Boost Youth Voter Engagement

A coalition of Pasadena community groups led by Metropolitan Baptist Church hosted a voter registration and education event in late August seeking to boost civic engagement among young adults and teenagers. 

The nonpartisan initiative brought together the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Pasadena Branch, Martin Luther King Jr. Community Coalition, and Greek letter organizations.

The organizers plan to host follow-up events in September and October, focusing on educating voters about specific ballot measures and local elections.

The August event, held from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Metropolitan Baptist Church-Walker Park, 2283 Fair Oaks Ave., in Altadena offered voter registration, education on the voting process, and volunteer activities like writing postcards to battleground states. 

Organizers aimed to attract 25-50 participants, with a focus on engaging younger generations.

“We wanted to try to get everyone out to be involved because that is what we generally do as a service to the community,” said Gwendolyn McMullins, an event organizer. “And we really are trying to get some young people out and young adults.”

The initiative originated from a prayer group at Metropolitan Church during the COVID-19 pandemic, evolving into a community-wide effort to encourage voter participation.

Pastor Tyrone Skinner tasked the group with developing a plan to address concerns about declining voter turnout.

McMullins emphasized the importance of early civic engagement, stating, “I think the earlier we can get people to start voting, the better it is for the whole process because they’re going to be the ones to take the mantle going to be, and the young too.”

The event offered community service credits to incentivize youth participation. Organizers collaborated with Greek letter organizations and youth groups like Mentoring and Partnership for Youth Development to reach a broader audience.

“It’s open to whosoever will let ’em come,” McMullins said, underscoring the event’s inclusive nature and welcoming all community members regardless of affiliation. 

Metropolitan Baptist Church, celebrating 118 years of “Legacy and Love,” has deep roots in the community. Its involvement in this voter engagement initiative aligns with its commitment to community service and civic responsibility.

As the November elections approach, this grassroots effort represents a timely push to address declining voter turnout and engage younger generations in the democratic process. By fostering long-term civic engagement, organizers hope to strengthen local participation in all levels of government.