Using Technology to Connect with Congress

Calling all advocates! This web clinic is with VRL Advisory Board Member and POPVOX founder Marci Harris. She walked us through how to use technology to influence Congress without feeling like you’re screaming into your computer! Her platform, POPVOX, is a neutral, nonpartisan platform for effective civic engagement. Co-founded by two women (love that!) POPVOX can be your online “civic identity” with direct connection to policymakers. Learn about POPVOX, how you can contribute to bills before they become law, and influence policy. Marci will also share her insights in the world of civic technology, where new tools are being created everyday to helping shape our democracy.

Resources:

• Report on what the Landscape of looks like from Knight Foundation: Offers first of its kind analysis of the emerging civic tech landscape, including investments being made in this growing field and the organizations behind them.
• Funding from Knight Challenge: “Elections”

Related places to check out:

• TurboVote (proud VRL partner!): A program of Democracy Works, a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the idea that voting should fit the way we live.
• Code for America: Builds open source technology and organize a network of people dedicated to making government services simple, effective, and easy to use.

Interested in more? Use our Resource Library to access more skills.