Forge Young Talent's Vote Dammit Initiative Encourages Voter Registration, Civic Education And Community Engagement
FORGE Young Talent, in partnership with the Topeka Chamber and the Topeka Voter Collaborative, is continuing its Vote Dammit initiative, a community effort designed to encourage voter participation, increase civic awareness, and help young professionals understand the impact civic engagement has on the future of their community.
As part of the initiative, residents are encouraged to verify their voter registration status and poll information before election day on November 3. Throughout the election season, FORGE's Advocacy Committee has focused on providing educational content and resources that make voting more accessible and understandable.
To check if you are registered to vote and to find your polling place go to: Kansas Secretary of State | VoterView
The initiative is led by Molly Comstock, chair of the FORGE Advocacy Committee, who has developed a voter education video series featured across FORGE social media channels. The series breaks down voting topics, explains the responsibilities of elected offices and helps voters understand how government decisions affect daily life.
'Voting is one of the most impactful ways individuals can help shape the future of their community,' said Molly Comstock. 'Our goal with Vote Dammit is to make civic engagement approachable, informative and engaging while helping more people become confident and informed voters.'
FORGE leaders note that the initiative's memorable name is intentional. Vote Dammit is designed to capture attention and spark conversation around one of the most important responsibilities of citizenship. The bold branding helps cut through the noise while reinforcing a simple message: voting matters.
Beyond elections, the initiative aligns closely with FORGE's mission of strengthening talent retention and community engagement. People who are informed and involved in their communities are more likely to develop stronger local connections, invest in community outcomes and contribute to long-term community success. Civic engagement is a critical component of creating vibrant communities where young professionals choose to live, work and build their futures.
'The Topeka Chamber is proud to support efforts that encourage civic participation and strengthen community engagement,' said Bob Ross, President of the Greater Topeka Partnership. 'When individuals understand issues impacting their communities and participate in elections, they become stronger stakeholders in our region's future and economic success.'
The initiative will culminate with FORGE Young Talent's annual Vote Dammit Party on Election Night. The free event will feature appetizers, interactive games, trivia, and community celebration surrounding civic engagement and Election Night.
All pre-registered attendees will receive a free Vote Dammit T-shirt, with additional shirts available for purchase thanks to H&H Designs.
'The Wheel Barrel has proudly supported FORGE Young Talent and its mission for years, and we're excited to host Vote Dammit for the first time,' said Pedro Concepcion, owner of The Wheel Barrel. 'As a local business, we want to help create a community where people feel connected and invested. Encouraging civic engagement and bringing people together around something as important as voting aligns perfectly with that goal.'
Vote Dammit Party
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
The Wheel Barrel, NOTO
Register for the event here: https://events.topekapartnership.com/5Y1d0nc7/5a18Vvx30r7

