Young people have a voice
Residents can help shape the places they call home, regardless of whether they hold public office.
Creator · Whose Vote Counts
Local government is where our everyday lives take shape.
James C. Walker IV created Whose Vote Counts to encourage greater civic participation among Atlanta's younger generations.
James believes young people have a meaningful role in shaping the communities they live in. Civic engagement should not begin and end on Election Day. Decisions about neighborhoods, housing, transportation, public services, education, and community development continue to be discussed and made throughout the year.
His mission is to help young adults understand how local government works and recognize the opportunities they already have to participate in public decision-making. That can mean attending city council or county commission meetings, taking part in public hearings, contacting elected officials, joining neighborhood associations, sharing public comment, or exploring existing local government programs.
Whose Vote Counts was developed to help bridge the gap between young people and local government by bringing accessible information and practical starting points together in one place. The goal is not to tell people what to think, but to make it easier to learn how decisions happen, find the right place to participate, and contribute to the future of their communities.
Community, leadership, and civic engagement
“Civic participation is more than casting a ballot. It is understanding the decisions that shape our communities and taking part in the conversations that help move them forward.”
Participation is ongoing
Public meetings, hearings, neighborhood associations, and public comment create opportunities between elections.
Knowledge opens doors
Understanding local institutions helps residents identify where decisions are made and how to contribute.
In the community
Learning, connecting, and taking part.
These photographs were provided for the author page and reflect the community and educational settings connected with the project.
Your voice belongs here
Find your way to participate.
Explore the engagement tools, learn how public decisions are made, and take a practical first step toward a more active role in Atlanta.
Explore engagement tools →