The Linn County Elections Office has hired Edwin Valladares to fill the new position of Voter Outreach Coordinator. This part-time (20 hours/week) position will oversee voter registration drives and other outreach initiatives in an effort to increase the number of registered voters in Linn County and to increase voter awareness. The position will also oversee and coordinate early voting activities and coordinate registration and voting assistance for military personnel and citizens overseas.
Valladares will also be responsible for developing relationships with various segments of the population, including veterans’ organizations and minority groups to increase voter awareness throughout the community.
Valladares is a native of Honduras and speaks Spanish and English. He has lived in Cedar Rapids since 1994 and earned his American citizenship in April 2015. He is a volunteer with Diversity Focus and is an entrepreneur who owns his own business.
“With my background, I believe I can really help people, especially those from minority groups, who want to become more involved in the voting process but don’t know where to start,” Valladares said. “It’s all about education and engagement and helping people feel connected to the community.”