Voter registration is an issue nationwide. To help raise awareness and participation in our democratic process, the Vecino Group is launching its first National Voter Registration Drive. Scheduled as a series of family-friendly events at various developments around the country—the kick-off event was held at the future Intrada Westside site in Atlanta, Georgia.
“In order to be a success, it is important to listen to the community when pursuing any type of development,” says Vecino Group President of Affordable Housing Sharon Guest. “but this is an opportunity where we can actually help the community to realize the power of their own voice.”
Held on June 30th, organized by Historic Hills CDC, the Vecino Group Southeast and other partners, the event not only helped get people registered to vote, but also provided information on additional ways to be active on behalf of their community. Music was provided, as well as some great local flavors—courtesy of the food truck from Bankhead Seafood owned in part by Killer Mike and Noel Khalil. Killer Mike attended/worked the event, and complimented the efforts saying to the crowd, “Economically, politically and socially Atlanta is great—but I think there is value to seeing people like you and me actually be the development in this community.”
More than 200 people attended—26 of whom became first-time registered voters. The effort was made possible through the assistance of Historic Hills CDC, Buy Back the Block, Dynasty Real Estate, Fulton County Board of Registration & Elections, Bankhead Seafood, The Swag Shop & National Church Residences—who all helped to make this a success.