Recent listening sessions revealed Black participants want year-round engagement, especially in churches, senior centers, and neighborhoods. Center for Common Ground established the first Democracy Center in December 2020 for the Georgia run-off election. In 2025, there are now 14 Democracy Centers across Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama. The urgency for continuous community engagement and organization has grown.

Our work is rooted in the shared values that prioritize affordable healthcare, economic equity and quality education. Data from the Pew Research Center shows that 70% of Americans value quality education, and 67% emphasize the importance of affordable healthcare. These are not just aspirations but necessities that can unite people across diverse backgrounds.

The Black community is hurt "first and worst" by the Administration's economic policies. Communities that were already food and housing insecure are struggling more than ever. Now, people are questioning whether voting will change anything. We must change this now!

We are helping Black voters feel seen and heard; we respond to the immediate need for food, rent relief, help with heating bills and people who listen first and talk later.

Empower the Community
Community engagement and civics engagement are the same thing. We're teaching civics, providing food, rental assistance and teaching community members who is responsible for what they need. We are teaching the community that they do have a voice and they can take that voice to elected officials at the local, state and even Federal level.

Our Vision for Change
We envision a future where everyone works together towards common goals, ensuring that all communities have access to the resources they need to thrive. This includes protecting and expanding earned benefits like Social Security, which is crucial for seniors and older voters who rely on it for a decent retirement income.

The Power of Collective Action
Historical movements, such as the Civil Rights Movement's alliance with labor unions, demonstrate the power of cross-racial unity in achieving equitable wages and work conditions. By mobilizing Black voters in Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas, we can build on this legacy and drive substantial policy changes that benefit workers from various industries and backgrounds.

Call to Action
To achieve our vision, we need your support. Here's how you can contribute:

Donate: Your financial contribution will help us purchase voter files, run community education programs, and run paid get out the vote campaigns staffed by local community members.
Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers who will be working on the ground to mobilize Black voters.
Spread the Word: Share our message with your networks, emphasizing the importance of collective action and the shared values that unite us.
Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations already working on the ground in these states, providing additional tools and volunteers. Georgia and Virginia already use the Team Unity concept; we are building in North Carolina, Texas, Florida, and South Carolina.

Your Donation Will Help Us:

Purchase Voter files for Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas. Effective outreach requires correct addresses; our PDI data has a 2% error rate while other sources are more than 25% error prone.
Staff and Democracy Center salaries: Our monthly payroll is $45,000
Amplify marginalized voices: We'll continue to provide a platform for Black voters to share their stories and experiences.
Counteract divisive narratives: Black voters continue to be ignored by political candidates and campaigns; they have not switched alliances, but without outreach, they may choose to stay home.

Together, We Can Create Change
Let's work towards a future where we can celebrate our differences while recognizing our shared humanity. Your support will help us build a stronger, more united South – and, ultimately, a better America for all.

Mobilizing for Democracy

By Center for Common Ground

Mobilizing for Democracy

Making Your Vote Count

Team Leaderboard

Team Members