Post by EQCA Supervolunteer Brooke Byrd from SacramentoI’d always been a supporter of marriage equality, and had volunteered on that sad election night when Prop. 8 passed, but since then had been more of a sit-on-my-hands type of supporter.
Then, one night I got a phone call asking me to come in for a phone bank. I was reluctant, but with the perfect amount of guilt and friendliness, the caller got me signed up for the next Wednesday night.
I showed up that night, still reluctant about giving up my night, and a little nervous about calling strangers. But when I stepped into the tiny Equality California office, my fears subsided. I was welcomed as a supporter, and with wine, cheese and smiles. The calling was much easier than expected – and I discovered I was actually pretty good at it!
That was only three weeks ago, but I’ve since been back four more times, and have committed to at least one night a week until 2012 (and am learning how to run them myself!).
While I’ve had my share of hang-ups, I’ve talked to some amazing volunteers on the phone – and then met them in person at the next phone bank! I’ve talked to supporters young and old and found them equally dedicated, including married, same-sex couples, allies and others. Some of the most amazing supporters have been teenagers. One girl’s aunt signed her up for a phone bank, and when she got to the office she got $100 in donations within her first half hour. Another girl signed up all of her friends to join us!
It’s been amazing to work with Jennie, the field rep here in Sacramento, and the entire phone banking crew. I’m looking forward to my first canvass, and am so happy to have dedicated myself to such an important cause.
Be like Brooke: volunteer! To get involved in your neighborhood, go to www.eqca.org/volunteer.
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