My friend Pete from DC and I are going to go to Virginia for the week (or so) before the election. Last night we looked over the 2004 presidential election map by county, and the voter turnout in 2006 and 2004, and pinpointed Buchanan and Tazewell counties as areas with Democratic views, medium-high population, and low voter turnout - those are counties in the far SW of VA, where the state makes a little sharkfin shape. This morning, I was able to speak with the Tazewell office directly, and the director there welcomed us with open arms and is making arrangements for us to come. I contrast this with the approach of simply using the "come to Virginia" link or contacting the VA campaign outreach - there we were met with little enthusiasm and a lot of vagueness about what we could do. I would much rather work hard and know I was making a difference, personally, so I'm REALLY EXCITED about this opportunity.
I was also just speaking with Fred Wong of the Tallahassee office in Florida, and he's saying that they're very, very eager for volunteers down there, and will have no trouble hooking you up with work and housing if you need it. It sounds like Florida is gearing up in capacity to handle out-of-state volunteers, but I note that the Florida page doesn't have an obvious "Come to Florida" link. So, if you're interested, I'd suggest that you try contacting Tallahassee directly. ;)
I guess that in sum I would just like to say: it's hard to organize volunteers, especially out of state volunteers. Obama offices want you, and if they fail to respond to your generous offer of volunteering the first time, don't give up. Keep trying, get creative, try to talk to specific people. I know it's more work, but it will pay off - you'll get a more rewarding volunteer experience, the offices will get the help they badly need, and hey, maybe America will even get the president we so richly deserve.
P.S.: If you're in NYC, Harlem4Obama is always looking for more office volunteers. They're located at 2479 Frederick Douglass just below 133rd. You can also call 347.577.7547.
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