To the Editor:

What are the best ways to get involved in local politics? That was the topic when I appeared last week as a panelist during “Government Day.”

We offered practical insights and actions to help get started in this field. My long-term wish has been to get more people involved in how they are governed.
My suggestions include:

— 1. Make a list of your values and decide which party is closest to them;

— 2. Volunteer for the party’s local committee. Good volunteers are gold for political leaders;

— 3. Always remember it is never about you; it is about them (your potential constituents);

— 4. Pay attention and speak up with clarity;

— 5. Be fearless. Stick to your core principles;

— 6. Work hard at it. Going door-to-door really does pay off in politics;

— 7. Build an address database and lists for emails and texts. This is your needed infrastructure;

— 8. Focus most on helping people any way you can; whatever their problem, seek a solution; and

— 9. Most of all, remember failure is not losing; failure is never taking your shot.

Too often, people are convinced politics is not for them; it is for someone else. That attitude narrows the pool of applicants for elected office and leaves us with a missed opportunity to create a stronger society.

Do not think for a moment, one person cannot make a difference. What if George Washington had thought that way, or Martin Luther King Jr. or Mother Teresa?

Each of us has a unique perspective and a distinct set of skills we can bring to the table. How about bringing yours?

“Government Day” was a program involving Leadership Capital Region, a bright group of professionals taking part in the Capital Region Chamber’s leadership program. The program is designed to provide, as the chamber puts it, skill development and community immersion experiences that help participants grow personally and professionally. 

I want to thank everyone involved in the day (especially Justin Naef and Mollie McIver at CDPHP). It was a privilege to share part of the day with all of you.

Mark Grimm

Guilderland

Editor’s note: Mark Grimm is a Republican Albany County legislator, representing District 28, which includes five election districts in the Carman Road area of Guilderland and one election district in South Colonie.