YWCA and NCNW to Host Two Voter Education Events in Alton

YWCA Southwestern Illinois and the Alton Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) invite all community members to two upcoming Voter Education Events. These forums will provide an opportunity for voters to engage with candidates ahead of the April 1 election.

The Coffee with the Candidates & Madison County Clerk event will take place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the YWCA Lobby and Levis Room (304 E. Third St., Alton, IL). Voters will have the chance to meet one-on-one with Madison County Clerk Linda Andreas and all candidates for key City of Alton races, including Mayor, City Clerk, City Treasurer, and Alderman. Clerk Andreas will also share important voter information on early voting, vote by mail, registration, polling places, and the MadisonVotes.com website. Additionally, she will provide details on the Student Ambassador Program for youth interested in civic engagement.

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 7 p.m., YWCA and NCNW will host an Alton School Board Candidate Forum in the YWCA Gym. Six candidates are vying for four four-year seats on the Board of Education in the upcoming election: Jack Cox, Jr., Tiana Gipson, Jason Harrison, Barry Macias, Christina Milien, and Aline Russell.

This forum will allow voters to hear directly from the candidates, with each providing an introduction followed by a structured Q&A session with prepared questions. If time allows, audience members will have the opportunity to submit questions.

“Every vote shapes the future of our community,” said Emily Jackson, YWCA Board Member. “These events are a chance for residents to ask questions, learn about the candidates, and make informed choices at the ballot box.”

Both events are free and open to the public. Community members with mobility concerns are encouraged to park in the YWCA lot on George St., while others should use nearby street parking.

For more information, contact YWCA at 618-465-7774 or email info@ywcaswil.org.

These events are part of YWCA’s Get Out the Vote Initiative, which promotes civic engagement and voter education. YWCA and NCNW do not endorse any candidate for public office. YWCA is proudly sponsored by Morrissey Contracting Co., Inc., and Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery.

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