Local Organizations Offer Rides To The Polls To Drive Up Voter Turnout, Civic Engagement

Cleveland OH

20 October, 2021

10:24 AM

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By Michael Indriolo, The Land October 20, 2021 Early voters in need of rides to the polls are in luck. Local nonprofit Cleveland Votes is partnering with RideShare2VOTE Aware to provide transportation for early voters now through Nov. 2. "Transportation equity is a major pillar in the advancement of equitable democracy in Cleveland," said Jennifer Lumpkin, director of civic engagement and mobilization for Cleveland Votes, in a written statement. Early voters can request a ride to the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections by calling (888) 858-3421 or sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Voters also can book rides to their particular precinct on general election day. For those who've already voted or have some extra time, Cleveland Votes and RideShare2Vote Aware are also looking for volunteer drivers. "Every year millions of Americans find themselves unable to vote because they do not have the transportation to cast their ballot at their polling location," read a statement from Cleveland Votes. "The purpose of the rideshare program is to advance transportation equity in Cleveland and to strengthen its democracy." For those planning to vote closer to election day, another local organization, VoterDrive, will offer free rides from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2. Voters can request rides at the organization's website or by calling (216) 294-4261. Both VoterDrive and Cleveland Votes said their drivers will be following COVID-19 safety protocols. "This election is one of the most important in Cleveland's history as we decide our next mayor, '' said VoterDrive co-founder Paula Kampf. "We need a strong turnout for this critical election with so much on the line." Like this story? Take our community impact survey here and support local journalism by becoming a member of The Land. Michael Indriolo is a reporting fellow at The Land. The Land is a local news startup that reports on Cleveland's neighborhoods and inner ring suburbs. We deliver in-depth stories that foster accountability, inform the community, and inspire people to take action.