The winner of the 2008 NACRC Best Practice in the field of Elections Administration was announced at the Annual Conference held in Kansas City, Mo. This year’s winner was Pat McCarthy, Auditor, Pierce County, Wash.
McCarthy’s program entitled “Champions of Democracy”was created to convey her gratitude and appreciation for the hundreds of citizens throughout the community who work hard to make sure every election is conducted fairly, honestly and accurately. Pierce County Champions of Democracy are showcased on the front covers of the 2007 General election voter pamphlets.
In the first year of the Champions of Democracy Program, members of the poll worker team were selected to participate. Initially, scores of poll workers were chosen and interviewed by the poll worker coordinator. A professional photographer took photos of the select six at the homes, job sites and schools. Champions of Democracy lapel pins were manufactured and distributed to all Pierce County poll workers.
The Champions of Democracy Program was overwhelmingly successful in its efforts to honor legendary poll workers and enlighten the community about folks just like them who are actively involved in the voting progress. The program received positive feedback from all involved and Piece County plans to make the program a regular endeavor during the fall elections season.
Pierce County’s Champions of Democracy Program was selected by the NACRC Elections Administration Interest Group based on the effort the project took to implement, the fact that it directly assisted the voter or aided the workers conducting the election and its ability for the program to be applicable in other counties.
Honorable mentions go out to the other best practice contributors:
Building Team Democracy
Submitted by:
David Orr, Clerk
Cook County, Ill.
Jo-Co Po-Lo Outreach Campaign
Submitted by:
Brian Newby, Election Commissioner
Johnson County, Kan.