Our Committees

Neighborhood Campaign Committee

The Neighborhood Campaign Committee promotes and organizes activities that develop neighborhood connections, inform Athens residents about democratic values and issues, and help elect Democrats. In person and online, we provide a venue for conversations with candidates, and discussion of issues such as social and economic equity, health care, jobs, education, and protecting our environment. We partner with the Ohio Democratic Party at the state level, and with the Young Dems and OU Dems, as well as various non-partisan movements, on the local level. 

The committee recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers and local Democratic Party Precinct Captains, as well as manages the Athens Dems Office. Current activities include promoting voter registration, rallies and protests, letter and postcard writing, blogging on the issues, and person-to-person texting -- all the tools that get out the vote for Democratic candidates and issues. Door-to-door canvassing to resume soon!

Chair: John Henning

Communications Committee

The Communications Committee assists in advancing our local party’s values and messages through various communication channels, such as this website, our monthly newsletter, and social media. The committee promotes the party's official activities, as well as those of party-aligned non-partisan indidivuals and groups, and encourages community participation and support. We:

• Educate the public on the party platform and its positions on issues

• Share information about elections, issues, and Democratic candidates

• Promote ways to get involved and volunteer for your party, candidates, and the issues you care about

Chair: Ashley Sarver

Community Engagement Committee

This committee organizes our participation in community events including the Ohio University Homecoming Parade, Nelsonville Parade of the Hills, Athens County Fair, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Brunch, and the many other parades and local festivals that take place throughout Athens County.

Chair: Patrice Beard

Community Service Committee

A bedrock principle of the Democratic Party is support for communities and the people that live in them. And that is what the Community Service Committee has done through numerous projects across Athens County. Under the leadership of Janalee Stock, for many years the committee led the party's litter pickup days, including involvement in the Adopt a Highway program, as well as established Little Free Libraries, made and distributed reusable bags, and helped staff the SE Ohio Food Bank, hosting free dinners.

We're seeking our next Committee Chair. Do you already lead volunteer work? Join with the Athens Dems and amplify your efforts!

Chair: Vacant

Finance and Fundraising Committee

The Finance and Fundraising team ensures that the party has adequate resources to maintain a strong political infrastructure in the county, and to support Democratic candidates at the local, state, and national level. We seek creative ways to raise money and awareness that are meaningful and enjoyable for the community. Some examples include our Straw Poll Breakfast, Donkey Trot 5K Run, and popular County Dinners featuring prominent politicians. We also seek support through online donations and digital fundraising campaigns.

Chair: Kate McGuckin
Co-Chair: Sally Jo Wiley

Candidate Recruitment and Training Committee

Interested in running for office, but not sure what that involves, or how to get started? Learn from seasoned candidates about what it takes to jump-start your campaign and get elected. This committee offers the guidance, training, and ongoing mentorship you need to take your campaign to the next level.

Chair: Steve Patterson