Two smiling women pose near a precinct sign

Adopt-A-Poll: Community Organizations Needed for November 4, 2025, Statewide Special Election

Author: Erin Clausen
Date: 8/19/2025 11:11 AM

With the statewide special election looming, the SLO County Elections Office is actively recruiting groups to participate in the Adopt-a-Poll program, through which local organizations staff polling locations with trained volunteers and earn funds for their cause.

San Luis Obispo, CA—The County of San Luis Obispo Elections Office is calling for non-partisan community organizations—such as school clubs, churches, nonprofit groups, parent-teacher associations, civic groups and service organizations—to participate in its Adopt‑A‑Poll (AAP) Program for the Statewide Special Election on November 4, 2025.

By adopting a polling place, groups can support their mission and raise funds (about $600 per precinct, including a training bonus), strengthen democracy, boost team morale and relationships, and gain visibility for their organization.

Eligible groups must be non‑partisan and not affiliated with any political party, candidate, or ballot measure. Prior participants have included high school and college clubs, service organizations like Rotary or Lions Club, PTAs, and faith-based or cultural groups.

 

Staffing & Shifts

  • Each precinct must be staffed by 1 Inspector (full-day) and at least 3 Clerks at all times. A team of 5 (1 Inspector + 4 Clerks) is ideal, and even more volunteers means the group can assign shorter shifts.

  • Clerks must serve a minimum 3-hour shift, with 5 hours preferred.

  • Inspectors must serve the full day; split shifts for Inspectors are not permitted.

 

Training & Compensation

Inspector training in late October is mandatory, and training is encouraged for clerks. Organizations earn a training bonus for those who do attend and then work on Election Day (up to a $100 maximum). Payment to participating organizations is mailed approximately six weeks after the election.

"Our Adopt-a-Poll program is a huge part of our Election Day staffing, and it's one of the most robust AAP programs in the state," said County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano. "Participants enjoy the sense of purpose and community when they work an election, and groups have raised money through it for scholarships, community grants, and even capital improvements."

One organization that participated in both the primary and general elections in 2024 was the Central Coast Women's League.

"It can be a long day, but it's so exciting to play an active part in local democracy," said CCWL vounteer Connie Cutler. "And we were able to use the funds raised toward scholarships that we award to students in the community."

Visit the Precinct Worker Programs page of the Clerk-Recorder website and for more information and to apply today. For questions, email [email protected] or call (805) 781-4989. All volunteers must either be California registered voters or permanent legal residents.

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