No doubt about it–the headlines feel more dystopian by the day. From mass deportations without due process to using the Justice Department as a personal weapon, Donald Trump’s return to power has been chaotic and alarming.
It’s no wonder so many people feel disillusioned. But it’s moments like this – when the stakes are high and the system feels broken–that meaningful community engagement becomes a lifeline. We can’t lose our rights and democracy without a fight.
Even so, showing up isn’t easy. Society feels fragmented. Trust is thin. And community groups can sometimes feel like a thing of the past.
It’s been small groups of active citizens across the country, angry with the status quo in Washington, that have caused Democrats to overperform in 2025’s special elections by an average of 20 points and organized the “No Kings” protest, which was one of the largest national demonstrations in American history.
At Javelina, we have a lot of experience working on political campaigns and other social change movements, and have a few tips for both the new and experienced community organizers.
1. Start Local: Your Neighborhood Needs You
Take a break from national politics and focus on your neighborhood. Find a community group advocating for a cause you care about, or support an electoral campaign you believe in (you could even run for office yourself!). In the odd year, there are often local campaigns for school boards and municipal offices.
２. Know Who You’re Talking To
Whether you’re trying to persuade voters or recruit additional volunteers or donors, identify your target audience and reach out. Many people are eager to get involved, but they just don’t know how.
３. Meet People Where They Are (Online)
Fewer and fewer people are following traditional media – TV ratings and newspaper subscriptions are on steep declines. Instead, people are spending hours every day on their phones scrolling TikTok and Instagram. Community organizing is now very digital. A social media presence is essential.
４. Make Room for Joy
Community organizing can be difficult work. Phone banking and canvassing, while extremely effective, are often difficult and draining for volunteers. For every difficult event, organize and offer a fun second event. That might mean bringing door prizes to a committee meeting or holding a happy hour at a local restaurant. People are seeking community with like-minded individuals, providing a forum for that is almost as important as actually doing the work.
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The road ahead may feel overwhelming. But history shows that meaningful change comes when ordinary people refuse to sit still. The future isn’t written yet—and with persistence, creativity, and community, we get to shape it.
