For Immediate Release
August 3rd, 2023
Contact: info@vot-er.org
Governor Declares August Civic Health Month in New Jersey
Civic engagement non-profit, Vot-ER, plays pivotal role
New Jersey – The power of civic engagement and the vital role of organizations dedicated to community well-being are being recognized and celebrated as Governor Phil Murphy officially declares August as Civic Health Month in New Jersey.
“Civic engagement offers every citizen the chance to have a say in what happens at the local, state, and national level,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “By voting and otherwise engaging in their communities, New Jerseyans have the opportunity to make their voices heard on policies that affect social determinants of health – including access to food, health care, housing, transportation, and education. It is crucial we continue to promote the civic health of our communities by encouraging greater participation in our democracy. Civic Health Month recognizes the laudable work of health care providers and advocacy organizations to improve the civic health of New Jersey communities and will serve as an annual reminder to us all that civic engagement is key to ensuring the health and well-being of our residents.”
Among the organizations at the forefront of this movement is Vot-ER, a leading advocate for civic participation and health, which played a pivotal role in the passage of this significant proclamation.
“Civic Health Month aims to amplify efforts in inspiring individuals, healthcare providers, and community organizations to actively participate in civic activities that promote community well-being, address health disparities, and advance health equity. Governor Murphy signing this proclamation presents an opportunity to further the mission of Vot-ER in promoting civic engagement and its positive impact on health outcomes” said Dr. Alister Martin, Founder of Vot-ER and A Healthier Democracy.
Vot-ER is committed to connecting healthcare providers and community organizations to empower individuals to engage in civic activities and drive positive change. Through their partnerships, events, and resources, Vot-ER fosters civic engagement and advocates for community health policies, garnering support from officials and administrators nationwide. This proclamation by Governor Murphy serves as a testament to the dedication and impact of organizations like Vot-ER in creating a healthier and more engaged society. “As current and future healthcare providers, we know that civic health affects our physical and mental health,” says Aakash Shah from Healing the Vote, one of Vot-ER’s Civic Health Fellowship Teams based in New Jersey. “Declaring August as Civic Health Month moves us to act on that very fact.”
To commemorate this milestone achievement, Vot-ER invites the Jersey community to join in celebrating Civic Health Month throughout August. A series of prominent speakers, workshops, and trainings will be offered. The highlight of the month will be the Civic Health Conference taking place on August 25th. Participants can register for the event and access further information by visiting this Registration Link.
About Vot-ER:
Vot-ER is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to integrate civic engagement into healthcare. We develop nonpartisan civic engagement tools and programs for every corner of the healthcare system—from private practitioners to medical schools to hospitals. Our work is driven by a community of health care professionals, organizers, clinical students, and technologists united by a common vision: healthy communities powered by inclusive democracy. Together, we’ve expanded Vot-ER programs into over 700 hospitals and clinics and helped more than 75,000 Americans prepare to vote.
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