Communities across the United States are joining forces on September 16 for National Voter Registration Day, a single-day effort to boost civic engagement as more than 100,000 elected positions are set to be contested this year.
With nearly 3,500 partners, including schools, libraries, and cultural events, the initiative aims to ensure every eligible American is registered to vote.
The event, described as the country’s largest celebration of democracy, comes at a critical time with more elections in 2025 than in 2024. From block parties to campus drives, organizations are mobilizing to engage voters in local races that shape communities.
HeadCount, a nonpartisan nonprofit, will host a flagship block party in New York City’s Washington Square Park and support over 36 youth-led registration drives nationwide.
“National Voter Registration Day is a celebration of our democracy and a reminder that every election matters, including the ones happening in our own backyards,” said Lucille Wenegieme, executive director of HeadCount.
Nonprofit VOTE, the managing partner of the initiative, will work with thousands of nonprofits and community organizations to provide voter registration resources.
“National Voter Registration Day is about the collective power of the community,” said Brian Miller, executive director of Nonprofit VOTE. “With thousands of partners nationwide, we are proving once again that there are no off years when it comes to strengthening our democracy.”
When We All Vote, launched by Michelle Obama in 2018, will organize 30 registration events during a National Voter Registration Week of Action, with a focus on young, Black, and Brown voters.
“Less than 50 days from Election Day, we cannot ignore how heavy things feel in the world, and we cannot forget the power we have,” said Beth Lynk, executive director of When We All Vote.
Rock the Vote, a 35-year veteran in youth voter engagement, will use digital outreach and local partnerships to help young people navigate voting barriers. “Registering to vote is the first step in making sure our voices are heard and that we elect leaders who reflect our values,” said Carolyn DeWitt, president and executive director of Rock the Vote.
Vote.org, which registered over 2.2 million voters in 2024, emphasized the collaborative spirit of the day.
“This civic holiday celebrates democracy as a collaboration,” said Andrea Hailey, CEO of Vote.org. “Your registration today is your power tomorrow.”
Supported by over 100 major national partners, including the Carnegie Corporation of New York, Google, and the NBA, National Voter Registration Day encourages community participation.
To find a registration event or learn more, visit the initiative’s website.