As people of faith, we have always held the right to vote as a sacred obligation. We mobilized our faith communities in 2024 to help make sure every eligible voter was able to cast their vote. This work paid off as we saw the greatest voter turnout nationwide in US history. That turnout was a great victory for democracy. But there is more work to be done.
Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign (WIVEC) mobilizes our faith communities to engage in the democratic process. We believe that this work will build increased understanding and stronger ties among different faith communities; increase involvement in the electoral process; and result in a greater understanding of the positive role faith communities can play in the public square. WIVEC is a non-partisan campaign committed to promoting voter engagement, sharing voter education opportunities, resisting voter suppression, and advocating for the rights of all Wisconsinites.
Faithful Voices in a Critical Hour Webinar Series
Join WIVEC each month as we prepare for the fall midterm elections. Grounded in shared values and with voices from varying faith traditions, we’ll explore ways to strengthen democracy, deepen community engagement, and equip you with the tools to advocate for voter participation in your community.
Faithful Voice in a Critical Hour: A Legacy Worth Building On- Faith 250
Monday May 4, 2026
12:00 PM CT
Virtual via Zoom
As we prepare for the midterm elections, the Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign (WIVEC) is launching a monthly webinar series focused on civic and voter engagement from a faith-based perspective, called Faithful Voices in a Critical Hour. The series kicks off with A Legacy Worth Building On- Faith 250, an introduction to the Faith 250 program as we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary. The webinar will explore meaningful ways to engage the texts that have shaped our country, while encouraging reflection, connection, and shared civic renewal. Discover how communities can come together across differences to build relationships rooted in empathy, unity, and a deeper understanding of our shared story. We will also share ways to get involved with the program both in-person and virtually.
Imagine rooms full of people from many faiths — sharing food, conversation, and fellowship — reflecting together on what makes this country worth celebrating. WIVEC is hosting community gatherings this May and June, leading up to July 4th, where neighbors read and discuss America's most inspiring founding words. It's a once-in-a-generation chance to counter division and build unity together.
You are invited to join the conversation in-person in Milwaukee or Appleton or virtually via Zoom. Each gathering will focus on one or two texts and will offer the opportunity for fellowship and dialogue. Join your community to gather, learn, and reflect!
Appleton Gatherings: In-person and Virtually
Milwaukee Gatherings: In-person Only
Art, Activism, and Faith: Democracy in Action
Originally held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026
If you missed this inspiring virtual gathering—or want to revisit the conversation—you can now watch the full recording of Art, Activism, and Faith: Democracy in Action hosted by the Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign (WIVEC) in partnership with Tikkun Ha-Ir.
This virtual gathering explores how art, activism, and faith intersect to strengthen civic engagement and our shared democracy.
Featuring:
Matt Kendziera on art and activism
Niki Johnson on her Pillars of Democracy series
Cantor Jeremy Stein offering sacred music and reflection
Click the link below to watch the recording and be inspired to take action in your community
Poll Chaplain Program
WHAT POLL CHAPLAINS ARE PROVIDED
Online training in nonpartisan guidelines, active bystander skills, and problem solving scenarios given by expert presenters.
(about a 90 minute commitment)Chaplain identification vests, hats, and badges.
Prior communication with and relationship established with election clerks.
Election Day expert support and communication.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can serve as a poll chaplain?
We would prefer ordained clergy or faith leaders who have taken Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or the equivalent.What is the time commitment on Election Day?
You can choose the block of time that works for you. Ideally we would like you to be available at peak times -
when the polls open, lunch time, and the last few hours of the day.Who will I work with?
We encourage people to work in pairs.
You can invite a nonpartisan colleague to work with you or we will try to find you a partner.
Since 2020, WIVEC has been the leader in the state-wide Wisconsin Poll Chaplain program.
We offer our 2024 program in partnership with the Wisconsin Council of Churches.WIVEC recruits, trains, and organizes clergy and faith leaders to serve as
nonpartisan poll chaplains on Election Day.
Poll Chaplains provide a peaceful presence, a sense of security, and a calming influence at the polling site
following all WI state voting guidelines.Faith leaders employ their pastoral and interpersonal skills with those present at the polls while monitoring the election site for any signs of voter intimidation or suppression.