Canvassing is one of the most effective ways that you can make a difference in your community. By knocking on your neighbors’ doors and speaking to them in person, you can start real conversations about the issues that your community faces and how you all can work towards real solutions.
Before the last election cycle, I had only ever phone banked and written postcards for various races across the country, and I had never helped out with a campaign in person. But in 2022, I decided to give it a try and came to realize that I loved to canvass. Canvassing door-to-door is not only the most effective way to get people out to vote, but it is also so much fun!
In 2022 I volunteered for two candidates — Caroline Menjivar and Mike Levin — who are leaders in climate and environmental action. Neither of them would have won without the hard work of the grassroots canvassers who knocked on doors and made calls. Sometimes just a little bit of volunteering can make the difference in the election and elect someone who will make a huge difference in office.
This year I am canvassing for Laura Friedman, a longtime climate champion running for the Congressional seat in my district. One of the reasons I love canvassing is that you often get to meet the inspiring candidates you canvass for, along with other amazing local changemakers in your community.
A photo of me (center) with my new friend Lindsay Carlson, the president of the Heart of LA Democratic Club (left) and another new friend to my right!
It is also so rewarding to meet new people through door-knocking. Last year, I spoke to one memorable older woman. We chatted for quite some time, and she was so appreciative that I drove out of my district to canvass in her area. This year, I met several people who had never heard of the candidate Laura Friedman but were excited to learn about how her policies and track record aligned with their views.
Canvassing may seem a bit intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it is lots of fun and feels so fulfilling. Every door that you knock on can be a potential new voter for a great candidate. I even gave pitches to several ring cameras — it never hurts to try!
If you have never volunteered to canvass for a candidate before, there’s no better time to start than now. The 2024 Primary Election will be critical for getting the climate champions we need into office, and the climate delayers out. I plan to continue to canvass until the election on March 5, and I hope you will join me. Sign up right now to learn about volunteer opportunities in the next few days and for canvassing for November’s election as well!
Ainslie Faust
Senior Administrative Assistant
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