Local organizations launch civic engagement initiative in North Central Washington

EAST WENATCHEE — Thriving Together NCW and several regional organizations have launched a nonpartisan initiative aimed at connecting North Central Washington residents with voter information, educational events and opportunities for civic participation.

The initiative, called Our Shared Democracy, provides text message updates about voter registration, important election dates, community conversations and other civic engagement activities throughout the region.

Residents who sign up can receive reminders about upcoming events and decide which activities they want to participate in. The service also offers bilingual access, allowing users to select Spanish-language updates after registering with their phone number.

Our Shared Democracy is a collaboration among Thriving Together NCW, Interfaith Justice Coalition, Braver Angels, CAFE, Faith Action Network, NCW Libraries, Wenatchee Valley Dispute Resolution Center and Hand in Hand Immigration Services.

The participating organizations plan to share information about civic activities across North Central Washington through the text messaging service.

“No matter where we fall on the political spectrum, the work of democracy takes all of us. We can have different perspectives on the candidates and issues but still come together to ensure that every eligible voter has the information needed to cast their ballot and have it counted." said Jess Ingman, regional organizer for Faith Action Network.

The initiative expands on previous Our Shared Democracy efforts organized by the Interfaith Justice Coalition, which worked to connect residents with democracy-related events throughout North Central Washington.

John Schapman, executive director of Thriving Together NCW, said the initiative is intended to help residents access information about participating in civic affairs.

“Our Shared Democracy gives people the tools and information to feel empowered to participate in the civic process. That kind of informed and engaged participation is part of what makes a community thrive.”

Thriving Together NCW, based in East Wenatchee, works with organizations and individuals throughout the region on health, well-being and community issues.

Learn more and sign up for text messages from Our Shared Democracy here.