A call to serve on Election Day

There is always a need for new poll workers. So, please, give it some thought.

As the election season begins, I urge you to consider signing up now to serve as a poll worker on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3.

I have been a poll worker for more than 10 years. You do not have to be a lawyer or any other type of expert to do this job and do it well. You just need to be a registered voter, an honest, hardworking person who can follow directions, and one who knows to ask if there is a question. It is an important job, a rewarding job and a way to contribute to our community.

Elections are, of course, one of the most important parts of our democracy. We need everyone to register (by Oct. 19 for the Nov. 3 election) and to vote, in person or by mail. We also need poll workers to assist in conducting the election.

At every polling place each Election Day, there are poll workers who work together to make sure the election is conducted properly, that ballots are properly cast, tabulated and delivered for overall counting, and to make the necessary record of how the election was conducted. Although there are senior election officials who provide oversight and overall direction, most poll workers are regular citizens.

Poll workers are typically inspectors and clerks of election, working under the direction of the judge of elections, who is on site. If there are more complicated questions — which in my experience is rare — there is a chain of command to have such questions answered. New poll workers receive training in proper election procedure, which takes about two hours. Before each election, poll workers take an oath to conduct the elections faithfully and impartially.

You might think that your first time as a poll worker might be intimidating. In my experience, it’s not. If you take the training seriously, follow directions and know that it is OK (and in fact encouraged) to ask questions, even the first year is pretty smooth.

After that, you are a veteran, often working with many of the same people, as most of us find it extremely worthwhile and come back year after year. Election Day is a full day, starting at 6 a.m. and lasting until about 9 p.m., as there is work to do before the polls open and after the polls close. There is a lot of teamwork, camaraderie and mutual respect. It is gratifying seeing voters of all ages and backgrounds doing their civic duty and feeling good about having done so.

As a poll worker, you feel you are doing something important, and that you are helping to make something vital work the way it should. Pitching in to do your part. Working to ensure fairness. These are core Jewish values. We speak often of tikkun olam — repairing the world — and it is rewarding to have the chance to put these core values into action.

There is always a need for new poll workers. So, please, give it some thought.

Here is a link to the Allegheny County website for poll workers. It provides detailed information on what is required and to expect (including to be paid for your time):

alleghenycounty.us/Government/Elections/Poll-Workers

If you are interested, I urge you to contact them this month. The office needs time to plan, and you need time to arrange for training and make sure that your schedule is clear on Election Day on Nov. 3. PJC

Andee Lowenstein has worked at the polls for 15 years.