Community Efforts in Louisville to Recruit Poll Workers
Louisville, Ky. — Local restaurants, breweries, and wineries across Kentucky are joining forces with the Secretary of State to recruit poll workers in anticipation of upcoming elections. This initiative aims to ensure that every voting location is adequately staffed and ready to serve the community during this crucial civic duty.
Breweries Taking Action
In Louisville, breweries like Against the Grain are actively promoting the need for poll workers. The director of operations at Against the Grain, Jason Smith, mentioned that this isn’t the first time his brewery has participated in this effort. They previously helped recruit poll workers during the 2020 elections and are enthusiastic to do it again. “We’re just out there promoting advertising,” said Smith. “You’ll find hangers with your codes on our beer cans and stores around the Louisville area that people can go to and they can sign up to be a poll worker. It’s important to have those, especially in big election years.”
This collaboration involves not only Against the Grain but also the Kentucky Guild of Brewers, the Kentucky Wineries Association, and the Kentucky Restaurant Association. They are all dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of poll workers. Newer establishments like Trellis have also joined the cause. Founder Kyle Jahn expressed his support, stating, “We recently had a voter registration event we held, and we’d love to help however we can.”
The Community Responds
Local patrons are pleased to see businesses stepping up to address the need for poll workers. Customers Chris Sonntag and Michael Beringer expressed their thoughts on the importance of volunteering. “There is a need for poll workers; right now is a very important time,” Sonntag commented. Beringer added, “People need to get out and vote and that there are people there to count the votes and make sure everything goes smoothly. And I think it’s important – it’s a good idea that these restaurants and breweries realize that, that their patrons want an honest and fair election.”
Focus on Engagement
According to Smith, the goal behind these efforts is to boost both poll worker registration and voter turnout. He explained, “Well, like I always say, high tide raises all boats. When we all get together and push behind the same initiative, it really helps get that word out there and increase awareness and let people know that there is a need out there that they can assist.”
How to Get Involved
Anyone interested in becoming a poll worker is encouraged to reach out to the Secretary of State’s office for more information on how to sign up. Many local breweries, wineries, and restaurants are participating in this initiative.
Participating Breweries
- Against the Grain, 401 E. Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202
- Butchertown Brewery, 1860 Mellwood Ave #187, Louisville, KY 40206
- Dreaming Creek Brewery, 109 E. Irvine Street, Richmond, KY 40475
- Trellis Brewery, 827 Logan Street, Louisville, KY 40204
- White Squirrel Brewery, 302 State Street, Bowling Green, KY 42101
- Wise Bird Cider Co., 1170 Manchester Street, Suite 140, Lexington, KY 40508
Participating Wineries
- Boucherie Winery, 6523 Keyway Drive, Spottsville, KY 42458
- Carriage House Vineyards, 259 Longview Lane, Auburn, KY 42206
- Ghost Fox Winery, 2385 Chrisman Mill Rd., Nicholasville, KY 40356
Participating Restaurants
- Ciao Restaurant, 1201 Payne Street, Louisville, KY 40204
- Ramsey’s Diners, all Lexington locations
This collaborative effort continues to gain support as community members recognize the vital role that poll workers play in maintaining a fair and efficient election process.
