As our community grows, so does our strength: RESULTS Summer 2024 outreach stories (Part I of II)

At RESULTS, we know the power of relationships. They are key to influencing lawmakers and building the movement to end poverty. That’s why RESULTS advocates stepped up this summer. We took on our most successful outreach moment since COVID, connecting advocates across 22 states to take more than 450 actions. These volunteers made countless calls and wrote postcards and letters to their members of Congress. While there is strength in numbers, every number represents a person — a story. This blog series will spotlight stories and advocates growing their connection and impact for justice. 

There couldn’t be a more important time to build community. 2024 is a major election year. While exciting, elections have also become damaging. Close to half of U.S. adults say politics is a major source of stress and depression. Only four percent of U.S. adults feel the political system is working. Division and rancor are everywhere.   

But there is a solution. Studies also show that taking an active role in democracy can improve these mental health issues. There are positive emotions that come from being politically active alongside a like-minded community. As RESULTS advocates, we grow in our power together. With every new connection, there is healing. With every new action, there is impact. We hope you will be inspired by these stories of everyday people finding community in the fight against poverty. Click on the names of the advocates below to read their full story. 

“In West Virginia, we’re told that people are close-minded in a lot of ways. But that’s not what I found when talking to people. People want to hear how to make things better. What’s surprised me the most is the number of people who do want to get involved but just didn’t know there were avenues to do so.” 

“It showed me that many people in our community share values. We connect on the problems we want to solve. We may disagree on politics and the right solution. But, we all want to improve our communities.  Outreach will show that your community cares. People are positive, receptive, and grateful for our work.” 

“They were the nicest people I’ve ever met. I didn’t feel awkward at all. Everything flowed really easily. I felt like I belonged. When people are looking for volunteer opportunities, they are often feeling alone. They are trying to get out more. Giving them the opportunity to get together, connect, and find their community—that’s worth it.”

Read Part II of the RESULTS Summer 2024 outreach stories series here.