The future of our democracy depends on young voters.
Ahead of the 2026 midterms, nearly 50 million people ages 18-29 are eligible to vote.
And it's more than the size of this voting bloc that matters; today's young voters are the most diverse in American history, making their voices essential in building a more representative democracy.
The Young Voter Power Initiative (YVPI) is a project dedicated to building a pipeline of young civic leaders nationwide. Members of YVPI will make a tangible impact in the nonpartisan democracy space as we head into a critical period in our nation’s history.
Participation in YVPI is completely free, with grants and funding to support the work done across communities.
What Benefits Will Young Voters Get from YVPI?
Participants will gain the following (and more):
- Leadership experience: Participants will spearhead meaningful actions, including voter registration drives, teach-ins, civic education efforts, election observation work, and more.
- Organizing and facilitation skills: YVPI events will be co-anchored by participants, not for them, meaning young voters will make decisions and participate at the highest level on all activations.
- A network of fellow activists: In addition to existing participants in YVPI, youth will grow into a YVPI alumni network and have a direct path into leadership with their local League.
- Firsthand knowledge of nonpartisan democracy work: YVPI will partner directly with the League and other leaders in the democracy space. Participants will gain valuable experience working from a nonpartisan lens.
Participants in YVPI will gain tangible experience and skills in advocacy, organizing, and community work, which we encourage them to use on their resumes, in applications, or in other capacities that empower them to invest in their future.
What Issues Does YVPI Focus On?
YVPI's work centers around 5 pillars, all led and determined by young voters:
- Voting Rights and Free Elections
- Money and Power in Democracy
- Cost of Living and a Voice in the Economy
- Climate and Community/Environmental Justice
- One open seat filled by the cohort, which may cover topics such as immigration, reproductive freedom, gun safety, and more.
All work within YVPI will focus on speaking to issues that matter to young voters in a way that they can connect to and feel empowered around.
Who is Eligible to Join YVPI and How Do They Apply?
YVPI is open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 30. No prior experience is required, and participation is free. The time commitment is roughly 8-11 hours per month.
LWV aspires to make YVPI accessible to as many young people as possible, with minimal barriers to entry. If you have any concerns, please contact [email protected].
Recruitment takes place year-round on a rolling basis. You can apply by filling out this form.
Once you’ve applied, you will hear from us within roughly two weeks (with a temporary delay during September - November 3, 2026, as we prepare for the midterm election). From there, you will be onboarded with a team based on your region.
Want to Recommend Someone for YVPI?
We highly encourage Leagues, partners, and everyone else to promote YVPI and refer young people to the program! You can share this page or contact [email protected] with questions.