What the research says — and how VAAC puts it to work

A new policy brief (10/29/25) reviews strategies that help justice-impacted people participate in our democracy. An estimated 4 million Americans remain disenfranchised due to felony convictions — down from 5.9 million in 2016 after advocacy restored rights in many states. But even when eligible, turnout lags because of confusion about eligibility, diminished trust, and too little targeted outreach. The evidence is clear: when people are contacted with accurate information and a direct invitation, registration and voting increase.

“Simply reaching out and inviting formerly incarcerated people to vote can improve their electoral engagement.”

— Policy Brief: Expanding Electoral Engagement Among Justice-Impacted People

Where VAAC intersects

• Targeted, nonpartisan outreach: Weekly phone banks (Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 5:30–8 PM) share plain-language info on voting rights, key dates, and options.
• Relational organizing: We recruit and train directly impacted leaders to contact people in their own networks — the most effective messengers.
• Eligibility education: We combat myths and confusion with clear, Michigan-specific guidance and referrals to trusted resources.
• Measurement: We track survey responses to refine scripts, improve follow-up, and focus on what works.

Together with partners, VAAC turns research into practice so justice-impacted voters have real access to the ballot — and real power in our communities.