I want to make the world better for my kids, but I don’t like the drama of politics. Where does that leave me?

Dear Grace,

I am feeling apathetic towards politics, but I care about my children and my grandchildren’s future. Do you have any advice for being involved in a way that isn’t so toxic and divisive? I’m looking for the ability to make a difference for them. Where do I start?

– Concerned in Colorado

Dear Concerned,

You’re not alone—many women in this community feel disheartened by the divisiveness they see online, on TV, and in their neighborhoods. But here’s the good news: getting involved is easier than you think, and it can be empowering, meaningful, and even joyful. In fact, past the noise and arguments, the day-to-day work of politics is just helping people. As a caregiver yourself, you’ll be a natural!

Learn more about what fires you up.

As you know, there’s no shortage of problems that need solving, so start small and local by picking one issue that you care about. Maybe you’re worried about kids going hungry in the summer. Is there a charity organization that serves lunch to hungry children? Maybe you’re concerned about single moms having enough money for diapers. Is there a hospital that needs help making gift baskets for new moms? Maybe you feel passionately about preserving a neighborhood park. Is there a community meeting you can attend? If you’re feeling stumped, ask your kids and grandkids what causes they care about. Search for local charities on the internet, ask your neighbors if they do any volunteering, or talk to someone at your local library or community center.

Find your superpower.

The real magic happens when you match your natural gifts and passions with the causes that speak to your heart. Love to write? Volunteer to help a local nonprofit with its newsletter. Great with kids? Support after-school programs or mentor young women in your area. Comfy in a kitchen? Help chop vegetables at a local soup kitchen. Your strengths are your superpower—and when you use them in service of what you care about, you become part of the change, without ever stepping into a shouting match.

Remember, politics is local.

Oftentimes, when we think of the word “politics,” we think of the president and Washington D.C. But as you get more involved, you’ll start to see how politics actually looks in your community and the impact that local policies have on people. In order to push for bigger or new solutions to the issue you’re passionate about, find out who is making decisions for your neighborhood, town, or county and consider showing up to a meeting to ask questions or calling their office to talk. Politics feels a lot less intimidating when you see that it’s just regular people showing up to try and solve problems together. The voices using fear and aggression to create drama don’t usually represent the majority of regular, caring people trying to make the community better.

Get a little braver every day.

As a mom and a grandma, you’ve already had to do hard things for your kids. Working toward a better future for them doesn’t need to be toxic, but it might mean stepping outside of your comfort zone. Many of the brave women in our country who have made a difference started because they wanted to stand up for their own and other kids! Start small with something that feels easy to you, like helping at a church canned food drive. Then try something that is a little more outside your comfort zone, like organizing a neighborhood trash cleanup. That way, you are working towards the big swings I know you’re capable of.

Check out this image to see how you can work your way from baby steps to big swings!

Change doesn’t always come from big speeches or bold headlines—it often starts quietly, with someone just like you saying, “How can I help?” The world needs your kindness, your strength, and your voice—now more than ever. I’m proud of you for taking a step to fight for your kids, and everyone’s kids. 

In Admiration, 

Grace