Meet Julie Dermody: Founder of Future Voters Club
Discover the passion and purpose behind the Future Voters Club, directly from its founder, Julie Dermody. Learn why civic education for children is her heartfelt mission.
My vision for the next generation
If you're reading this, chances are you care deeply about the next generation. So do I. I didn't create these stories simply to teach children about elections, the Constitution, or American history. Those are important subjects, but they are not the destination. The destination is the heart of a child.
I believe every child is created by God with purpose, curiosity, and the ability to make a meaningful difference in the world. I believe children are capable of understanding great ideas when those ideas are shared with truth, warmth, patience, and hope. I believe freedom is one of the greatest gifts we inherit—and with every gift comes the responsibility to steward it wisely.
My prayer is that these stories help children discover something far greater than historical facts. I hope they discover that they matter. That they can think. That they can ask questions. That they can serve. That they can lead. That they can make their communities better. They are already part of America's Story.
The journey to Future Voters Club
Much of the inspiration came from my years serving as the Secretary of the Rogers County Election Board. I have seen how many adults want to understand our elections and government but were simply never taught how the pieces fit together. At the same time, I watched children come into the Election Board office full of curiosity. They were not intimidated by big ideas—they just needed someone to explain them in a way they could understand.
My grandchildren also played a tremendous role. Their questions and excitement reminded me that children are capable of understanding far more than we sometimes give them credit for. If we introduce these ideas early through stories, relatable characters, and real-life experiences, civics does not have to feel dry or complicated. It can become personal.
That is really where the Future Voters Club began. I did not want children to grow up believing that citizenship was something other people handled. I wanted them to see our nation and ask questions.
Making a lasting difference in young lives
I hope children come away from these books believing three things: I belong. I can understand. And I can make a difference.
I want them to understand that freedom did not simply happen. It was built, protected, and passed down by ordinary people—and now they are part of that story. My goal is not to tell children what to think, but to teach them how to think: to ask good questions, seek understanding, listen respectfully, and learn how our constitutional republic works.
Through the Future Voters Club, I hope civic learning moves beyond the pages of a book and into homes, classrooms, and communities. I want children to become curious about elections, notice the people serving around them, look for ways to help, and understand that citizenship is something we practice long before we are old enough to vote.
Ultimately, I hope to raise a generation of thoughtful, informed, and faithful stewards of our republic—children who look at their country and say, “What can I do?”
"Julie's passion for civic education shines through every page, making complex ideas accessible and inspiring for children."
A parent's testimonial