Poll worker calls service rewarding

Editor's note: Ahead of the upcoming November elections, the Huron County Board of Elections spotlighted some of the volunteers county voters will encounter at the polls. MONROEVILLE — Brenda Sparks says working the polls gives her a chance to perform a civic duty while seeing people she might not otherwise encounter. Sparks began working elections after the fall 2020 election and is usually assigned to Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroeville. Her favorite job is running the poll pad, the electronic device used to check in voters. "I enjoy meeting/seeing people I don't normally get to see, and doing my civic duty," Sparks said. One election also brought an experience she is unlikely to forget. "We once had to shelter in place for a tornado," Sparks said. Sparks said poll workers attend a training session before every election. She described the work as rewarding and not overly difficult, adding that poll workers also enjoy a potluck together. "Join us," Sparks said when asked what she would tell someone considering becoming a poll worker. "You will learn a lot about how the polls work and have fun." She also encouraged residents who have never voted at the polls to give it a try. "Please vote," Sparks said. "If you never have, it's very easy and it is a right that you should exercise." Sparks is a semi-retired nurse educator. Those interested in becoming a poll worker can contact the Huron County Board of Elections at 419-668-8238 or huron@ohiosos.gov.