Get Involved & Volunteer
The DEC is a diverse organization, with members representing all segments of our community. Whether you become a member of the DEC, a club, a caucus or volunteer, you can participate with fellow Democrats to make a difference in our communities.
Volunteer with the Hillsborough County Democratic Party
Help us get out the vote, canvass for candidates, register people to vote and so much more! We have more than forty ways to volunteer. Maybe you like to work from home; or to get out and meet people. Maybe you have just an hour to give, or maybe you’re eager to do much more. We’ll match you to the work that needs to be done. And no, you don’t have to be a member to volunteer.
The easiest way to join the DEC is to become a precinct captain. Precinct captains keep Democrats in their precinct informed and get out the vote during elections.
Join the Party
Find Your Region
Every community has its own priorities. That's why we've divided Hillsborough County into seven regions, each led by a dedicated volunteer who organizes local efforts. Region leaders coordinate volunteers and events to make the biggest impact close to home.
Want to host an event in your area or learn how to get involved? Reach out to your region leader below.
Region Leaders
Region 1 — Angela Newkirk · Region1@hcdec.us
Region 2 — Open position
Region 3 — Lois Davis · Region3@hcdec.us
Region 4 — Dori Kane · Region4@hcdec.us
Region 5 — Rudina Richter & Lauren Wike · Region5@hcdec.us
Region 6 — Carol Wilson & Bonni Tandet · Region6@hcdec.us
Region 7 — Open position
Not sure which region you're in? Use the interactive map to zoom in:
TYPES OF DEC MEMBERSHIP:
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Precinct Representatives:
The core of the DEC membership consists of ordinary citizens who care about Democratic ideals and the Democratic Party. Each voting precinct in Hillsborough County elects one male and one female representative to the DEC, or two of each gender if the precinct has at least 1,000 registered Democrats.
This election occurs during the primary in each Presidential election year. If there are vacancies, the Chair may make appointments to fill those seats. Precinct members serve for four years and their term expires immediately prior to the organizational meeting every four years.
This position is the most grassroots level and helps us connect to voters at the smallest organizational level, the precinct. It is very important to the election of Democrats.
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At-Large Representatives:
There are “at-large” appointments the DEC Chair can appoint. These members are subject to approval by the existing elected DEC membership.
The goal is to ensure that there is accurate political, minority, and economic representation within the county. At-large terms are for one year only, and expire immediately prior to the organizational meeting every four years.
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Democratic Elected Officials:
All Democrats who are elected officials (other than judges) and who are elected countywide are automatic members.
Also, Democratic elected officials from the municipalities may become members if they request that status, are nominated by the Chair, and are aproved by the DEC membership.
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Presidents of Democratic Clubs:
These presidents of duly chartered Democratic clubs are automatic members of the DEC. The same is true for the presidents of Caucuses within Hillsborough County.
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Democratic Party Officers:
The officers of the Democratic Party at the county, state and national levels are “Special At-large members” of the DEC if they request, at any time after their election, to be granted this status.
WAYS YOU CAN HELP BUILD THE PARTY:
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Our regular monthly meeting is on the third Monday of every month; we meet to discuss local and national matters. Our membership is composed of registered Democrats who want to actively participate in the decision-making process of the Democratic Party on a county level. This is where you learn what is going on, hear from important guest speakers, and hear about what you can do to help us with our purpose of getting more Democrats into elected office.
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This is where the work gets done in between general meetings. Committees convene regularly to assist in the day-to-day operations of the DEC. From helping to organize communities to keeping records, the DEC’s committees are an integral part of its ability to get work done.
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We need people to knock on doors, make phone calls, plan events, reach out and so much more. In addition we have volunteer outreach opportunities that bring our members out into the community to affect change and promote well-being. Click on the link above to get started today!
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The DEC relies on donations to fund its operations throughout Hillsborough County. Every penny counts, and we are incredibly grateful for your support! Please click on the “Donate” button at the top of the page or contact us at info@hcdec.us to become a supporter today.
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Clubs and caucuses enable Democrats to help further the goals of the Party on a local level. There are numerous clubs and caucuses in the County, organized by geographic area and affinity groups.