Texting is one of the fastest ways to mobilize supporters, confirm turnout, and follow up after events. Whether you’re organizing a rally, reminding people to sign a petition, or pushing out urgent updates, SMS lets you reach people where they already are — their phone.
This toolkit provides safe, low-cost texting methods, sample scripts, and best practices for volunteer-led outreach.
1. Use a Google Voice Number (Protect Volunteer Privacy)
Before volunteers start texting, have them:
- Create or log into a Google account
- Visit voice.google.com
- Pick a free Google Voice phone number
- Use that number exclusively for campaign activity
Why?
- Protects personal phone numbers
- Keeps communication centralized
- Allows multiple volunteers to log in and share one line
- Lets you review message history
- Google Voice works on web + phone app
2. Turn Off Group Messaging on iPhones
To avoid revealing numbers or creating messy group chats:
Settings → Messages → Turn off “Group Messaging”
Volunteers should always send individual texts, not group texts.
If someone replies STOP:
- Immediately remove their number from your Excel sheet
- Do not contact them again
- This is a basic compliance and respect practice
3. Build a Low-Cost Texting System
If your list grows, consider platforms that charge only a few cents per text, such as:
- Klaviyo (cheap pay-per-text option)
- Twilio (SMS API—best for large lists)
- SimpleTexting
- TextMagic
These tools allow you to:
- Send mass texts
- Track opt-outs
- Create autoresponders
- Import Excel sheets
- Schedule reminders
For small groups, volunteers can text manually using Google Voice.
4. Create a Central Texting Spreadsheet
Track all contacts in Excel or Google Sheets with columns for:
- Name
- Phone number
- Zip code
- Issue interest (housing, policing, transit, etc.)
- Last contacted date
- “STOP/Opt-out” status
- Notes
This ensures you comply with opt-outs and keep communication organized.
5. Sample Text Scripts (Copy + Paste)
📣 Event Promotion
Hi [Name]! This is [Your Group]. We’re hosting [event] on [date] at [location]. Can we count on you to join us? Here’s the info: [link]
Petition Reminder
Hey! We’re collecting signatures for [petition issue]. It only takes 30 seconds to sign: [link]. Every signature helps us push for change!
Volunteer Recruitment
Hi! Interested in volunteering for [campaign]? We need help with canvassing, texting, and social media. Want to join our team? Reply YES and we’ll get you plugged in.
Day-Before Event Reminder
Reminder: [Event] is tomorrow at [time]! Meet at [location]. Bring water, a sign, and a friend! Text YES if you can make it.
Day-Of Event Reminder
Today’s the day! See you at [event] at [time]. Look for volunteers in [describe shirts/clipboards]. Reply if you need directions.
Thank You / Follow-up
Thanks for coming out today! Want to stay involved? Join our volunteer list: [link]. We’ll keep you updated on next steps.
Opt-Out
If anyone texts STOP or “Take me off your list,” respond:
Got it — you’ve been removed from our list.
Thanks for letting us know.
Then remove them from your spreadsheet immediately.
6. Volunteer Guidelines
Include a short list of expectations for anyone texting from your organization:
Be consistent with scripts and tone
Always use the Google Voice number
Never text from your personal number
No group chats
Keep messages short and friendly
Don’t argue over text
Respond to questions with links or facts
Remove STOP requests immediately
See the template