Stand up and be counted!
By ICCI

Caucus training this Saturday, November 17, 2007

Citizens for Community Improvement will host a free caucus training this Saturday, November 17, from 1-4 pm at their office in Des Moines (2005 Forest Ave).  Over sixty people are expected to attend this event, which will cover to the basics of the upcoming caucuses on January 3.  Attendees will learn the purpose of the caucuses and how the democratic and republican caucus formats work.  They will even participate in a “mock caucus.”

This event is just another educational opportunity planned and sponsored by CCI’s Citizen Action Diversity Committee.  The alumni chapter of Delta Sigma Theta’s Political Awareness Committee is also supporting this event and encouraging the public to attend.

“There are so many folks, like myself, who have never participated in a caucus,” said Lori Young, CCI Diversity Action Committee member since 2006.  “Well, now is the time to get involved.   We feel that through this training, everyday Des Moines voters will feel more comfortable and empowered about being part of the very important caucus process.”

CCI’s caucus mobilization efforts are part of a larger campaign to encourage political participation.  The Heartland Presidential Forum on Dec. 1, 1:30 pm at Hy-Vee Hall, is likely to be the final major gathering of the presidential candidates before the Jan. 3 caucus date.  Over 5,000 people are expected at the forum, and the following five candidates have committed to attend: Hillary Clinton, Chris Dodd, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, and Barack Obama.

Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is a non-partisan organization.  We do not endorse or work for particular candidates or political parties, nor do we intervene in candidate elections in any way.  We feel that the job of political parties and elected officials is to represent and act in the interest of everyday people.

Reservations for the Nov. 17 caucus training are requested, as seating is limited.  Call 515.255.0800 to reserve your free place today!  Members of the press are welcome to attend.

Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is a 32 year old organization with thousands of members across Iowa from all walks of life who talk, act and get things done on critical issues impacting everyday Iowans.  For more information, visit www.iowacci.org.