Join the Wave of Volunteers Signing Up to Save Democracy!

We saw the change right after the November election: A big increase in the number of people walking into our office on Main Street in Oregon City, looking for ways to put their skills and interests to work for their neighborhoods, state, and country. Clackamas County Democrats second-vice-chair Marchelle Paholsky, who keeps the office running smoothly and effectively, says that during the winter months "people often stopped in to get out of the rain for a bit, but mostly to find respite from the political storm.” And as winter has slowly changed to spring, the traffic continues.

"The minute they walk through the door, people take a deep, cleansing breath and smile, as if to say 'I have found my people,'", Paholsky says, adding, "Many are unsure about where to turn. They are scared, angry, and frustrated."

At first, office visitors expressed their concerns that Democrats weren't doing enough to respond to the Trump administration's reckless and punishing orders and actions. Paholsky has noticed that since grassroots organizations have gotten organized and gained traction, "There is more information out about what is going on to stop this madness and how to get involved. Now the majority of the questions revolve around: 'Who is my representative, and how do I get in touch with them? How can I get involved, what can I do to be a part of the solution?'”

Paholsky and a hard-working crew of office volunteers have answers, pointing people to a wide variety of options and explaining the skills and time commitments that are involved. Hand-outs are available with all this information, plus we have a form future volunteers can complete to outline their interests and availability.

All this information is also available on our website, clackamasdems.org. Just click on Volunteers at the top of the page to see the drop-down menu with all the how-to-help possibilities.

Paholsky explains that Clackamas Dems contacts everyone who fills out the volunteer form. "We have a great team headed up by Amber Tatge who makes sure everyone gets a helpful response. They will follow-up to go over all the options.”

Come by the office at 609 Main Street in Oregon City to pick up information and chat with the helpful and encouraging volunteer team there - call (503) 656-1931 to be sure we're open, as office hours vary.

There's so much work ahead, but with your help, we can get it done. Meanwhile, our thanks to those who have stepped up and volunteered - you provide the energy, imagination, and dedication needed to resist, defend, move forward. As Paholsky puts it: "We are building a powerful cadre of volunteers to fight for our democracy.”