By Emma Paradis & Lisa Grefe, Common Good Vermont Co-Directors
October 23, 2026
Nonprofits are cornerstones of our communities, with more than 6,400 organizations employing one in five Vermont workers and engaging over 220,000 volunteers. Nonprofits are also cornerstones of our democracy. Through their work, they bring people together to solve shared challenges, mobilize civic participation, and connect residents with the institutions that shape their lives. Nonprofits amplify public voice, elevate community needs, and help ensure that democratic systems are inclusive, accountable, and responsive. Perhaps it is this vital role in strengthening civic engagement and social trust that explains why, in a time of increasing uncertainty and polarization, nonprofits are viewed as more competent, ethical, and trustworthy than other American institutions.
As Vermont’s nonprofit association and a capacity builder for the sector, Common Good Vermont is leaning into strengthening nonprofit civic engagement this fall. This work has included:
- Hosting a webinar on “Nonprofits, Voting, and Civic Engagement: A Conversation with Vermont’s Secretary of State”
- Becoming a founding partner of the Vermont Secretary of State’s Civic Connect program
- Publishing a Vermont-specific Voter Engagement Guide for Nonprofits
- Conducting a Nonprofit Candidate Questionnaire to inform voters and engage candidates on nonprofit issues
- Moderating governor and lieutenant governor candidate forums in partnership with Town Meeting TV and Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility
Supporting people to participate in democracy is a natural part of nonprofit missions. Through nonpartisan voter engagement and encouraging civic involvement, nonprofits can help foster a more inclusive democracy while elevating the experiences and priorities of the people they serve. This work strengthens the connection between community needs and public decision-making, ultimately contributing to healthier, more resilient communities.
At Common Good Vermont, we believe that democracy depends on the rule of law, the freedom to speak and gather, the right of people to choose their leaders, and the peaceful resolution of differences. These enduring values cannot be taken for granted and must be practiced and protected.
We are proud to be among the many Vermonters standing up for our democracy and deepening civic participation. As we approach Election Day, we invite you to join us in taking action for the common good:
- Vote! Drop your ballot off in a drop-box or at your town clerk’s office, or vote on Election Day, November 3rd.
- Help someone else make a plan to vote.
- Share trusted voter information from the Vermont Secretary of State’s office.
- Give to a nonprofit organization supporting your community.
- Volunteer as a poll worker or with a local nonprofit.
- Attend a local meeting.
Democracy thrives when we participate. Not just on Election Day, but every day. We all have a responsibility to help build a Vermont where everyone has a voice, a place, and an opportunity to contribute – your role makes all the difference for the people around you.