By Eileen P -
I did some canvassing for Democrats here and there in the past, but something deep shifted in me when the Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade. Now I canvass with the Madtown Os every chance I get.
I feel compelled to take effective action to make a positive difference. Canvassing fills that need for me. Organized and focused, the leadership of Madtown Os makes good use of my time. Just two hours on Saturday mornings – that fits well into my schedule. I enjoy it and I sleep better at night because of it.
I love talking with neighbors. It is always surprising to me how many people will open their door to me and share their thoughts. Each door is an exciting possibility for an interesting conversation. I love meeting the dogs and cats and seeing the impressive gardens. I like walking, in all kinds of weather.
Also, it is motivating to be able to help people. The MiniVan app we use for canvassing is loaded with important information, so it is easy for me to help my neighbors by looking up their polling location and the early voting locations and hours. I can mark off prior residents who have moved and add in the new ones. And for the rare hard-core Republican on our list, I can offer to remove them from our list so they will not be bothered by us again. Even that is helping! And I feel really good when I come across someone who wants to volunteer with the Os, I just verify their contact details, add a note in the app, and text our leaders. I like to take newbies out with me, as a canvass buddy, to help them get comfortable with canvassing. All of this is very satisfying and keeps me coming back.
I am surprised by how much it means to me to be part of the Madtown Os. I am grateful to be part of such an effective and energetic neighborhood action team.