The American Voters League (AVL) today announced the appointment of its first Chief Executive Officer, Howard Franklin, 23, who is responsible for developing and implementing the organization’s strategic and programmatic initiatives and coordinating outreach programs to elevate voter awareness and action.

“We’re excited to have this young man charting the course for the organization; his background and youth serve our cause well,” Maynard Jackson, former three-term Atlanta mayor, founder and chairman of the AVL said. “Just like Coca Cola sells drinks and Cadillac sells cars, the American Voters League is selling the value of the vote. We’ve mounted a campaign to increase voter turnout and with a special focus on youth, who have been spoon-fed a valid but ineffectual rationale for voting rooted in a bygone era to which, regrettably, they are unable to fully relate. Young Americans are insisting that we show them the direct correlation between voting and achieving a better life by answering their most persistent question, ‘What’s in it for me?’”

The AVL’s marketing and media campaign employs a wide range of strategies that are specifically designed to sell the value of voting. According to several recent studies, the 18-32 age demographic is most disillusioned with America’s political system. Additionally, studies show that voter turnout is at its lowest level in years, regardless of age, education, income or ethnic background.

“The problem of voter apathy requires that we examine and attack its root causes, rather than diverting energy and resources to its side-effects,” Franklin said. “We understand the magnitude of the challenge we’re undertaking; however, the desire and need for change is even greater.” The AVL is a non-partisan, non-profit organization with 501(c) 3 status, making it eligible to receive tax-deductible donations of any amount from any individual, organization or corporation. Initially, the organization will focus on key southern states, due to the fact that the South has historically been a deciding factor in presidential elections. The AVL will then extend its reach nationwide in order to establish the organization as the leading authority on the new dynamics of voter turnout. “The AVL is well-positioned to partner with voter education and registration initiatives. We focus on providing motivation, which is the final component of the voter turnout cycle,” Franklin added.

“We welcome assistance in any and every form,” Jackson said. “As a non-partisan organization, we do not endorse parties or candidates. We combine and apply contributions to achieve something that everyone can be proud of-increased participation in this country’s great democracy and its policymaking process.”

Franklin joined the AVL from Atlanta-based William Mills Agency, a public relations firm specializing in the financial services industry. He is a graduate of Morehouse College, having earned degrees in English and sociology. While there, he was the managing editor of the student-run publication, The Maroon Tiger, and president of the Morehouse Sociological Association.

More American Voters League

Founded in 2002, the American Voters League (AVL) is a national organization dedicated to increasing voter turnout in local, state and federal elections. The AVL uses provocative and compelling media marketing to reach registered voters, giving special attention to under-represented segments of the voting population. The organization strives to educate and motivate citizens to actively participate in government by harnessing the power of the polls. For more information on the American Voters League, its mission, and how you can help, write to:

American Voters League
100 Peachtree Street, N.W.
Suite 2250
Equitable Building
Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1913
Visit Website: www.americanvotersleague.org
Phone: 1-866-AVL-VOTE.