I used to register voters in college, and while it was fun, it was amazing how many people would get hostile with me. Sure, I was working with a specific organization, but it wasn’t partisan, or offensive, or even a “wedge” issue as so many people claim some issues are (though I’ve worked with plenty of them, too). All I was asking was if they wanted to vote or not, right?

If you do want to vote in time for the elections in your state, you do have to be registered by a certain date—which means that it’s probably a good idea to register as soon as you turn 18. It’s sort of a right of passage, too—why miss it? Each date’s voter registration deadline differs, so it’s important to stay on top of the date in your own state.

Remember to Register to Vote Week is September 27 through October 3, so why not take this opportunity to make sure you’re registered, your address is current, and maybe even locate your polling place if you don’t already know where it is? It’s the last week that brand new voters can register to be eligible to participate, so be sure to register now if you want to vote in the fall.

If you are age 18 or older, are a current U.S. citizen, and are not serving jail time or on parole for a felony charge, you are eligible to vote. If you are already registered and know all of the information you need, maybe you can take some time this week to help register the people in your life who may not already be registered, such as newly-turned 18-year-olds. I had the opportunity to register my own father for the first time, which was really cool.

Does your local school or youth center have an annual voter registration drive? Many are held in the spring, but this might be a good time to hold a quick one. See if your administrator wouldn’t mind if you set up a nonpartisan booth to help new adults register.

My favorite resource for voting information has always been Rock the Vote. At the site, you can register to vote, find out various laws about voting (if you’re a student or a convicted felon), and find out how to cast an absentee ballot. You can also locate your polling place, sign up to get reminders about voting, and more.