Civic Engagement

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Election Initiative 2026

October 26th 2026 is election day for municipalities in Ontario.
 
As a local community organization focused on engaging residents, 
We have two goals for this election:
1. Zero acclaimed seats in municipalities across Dufferin County and Caledon
2. Increased voter turnout

To make that a reality, we have a few different tricks up our sleeve, and all of them involve our wonderful community. Want to know how to get involved? Here are a few ideas:
  • Consider running for council this election! If you are curious, there are information sessions April 29th, May 6th and May 7th, and each town has information for prospective candidates on their websites.
  • Participate in our sticker design contest
  • Attend our community gatherings and join our election task force
  • Talk about it! Discuss the election with your neighbours, friends and family. Encourage people you think would be great community champions to run for council. Encourage everyone you know who is eligible, to vote in October.
  • Follow, like, and comment on our socials
  • Volunteer to support someone who is running
  • Vote!

Check out these resources from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario's Healthy Democracy Project for more inspiration. 

Opportunities to participate

Submit your art to our Municipal "I Vote" Sticker Design contest!

Want to see if your creativity can have an impact? Design a 2 inch round sticker and submit it to our competition - the winner will have their design shared all across the Headwaters region! We are looking for a sticker that can motivate, educate and/or thank people for voting in the October 2026 municipal elections. Anyone can enter, anyone can win. You can submit your designs online here or deliver hard copy to your local municipal office or library. If you are submitting a paper design, please ensure to attach the name and age of the artist and contact information so we can be in touch if you win! We'd also love to hear about what inspired you and why you think people should vote in your municipality. 

The deadline is June 12th 2026. 

SUBMIT A STICKER DESIGN

The details:

  • Final Trim Size: 2-inch circle
  • Bleed Zone: If using a background colour, extend it 2.12 inches/53.8 mm (or 0.12 inches past the circle line).
  • Safe Zone: Keep all important text/faces to within1.88inches/37.8mm (at least 0.12 inches inside the circle line) so they don't get clipped.
  • Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for digital files
Some general design tips:
  • Bold & Simple: Small details get lost on a 2-inch sticker. Use bright, bold markers or high-contrast digital brushes.

  • Be creative: Think about a sticker you might want to wear and show off. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box (but do stay inside the circle).

  • Be inclusive: We want to make sure nobody is left out this municipal election. We'd love to see some designs that reflect that idea!

  • Messaging: Use phrases that promote a positive community identity like "I Vote," "Our Town, Our Future," or "My municipality votes." It can include relevant details like what this is about (the municipal election) and when it is (October 26th 2026). The image should not have too much text however, so try keep it simple. There should be something that makes clear what the sticker is for.

And remember, all designs must be submitted by June 12th 2026! Good luck!
 
Other ideas?

Other ideas?

We want to hear them! Email christine@headwaterscommunities.org and let us know what you think might help us get closer to our goals of zero acclamations and increased voter turnout!