California’s general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, and the deadline to register is coming fast. Voter education in Pasadena and Altadena sits at the heart of BCCA’s civic work, because every family deserves to know what’s on the ballot and how to make their voice count. Here are the dates to know, and the ways BCCA is helping our community get ready.

Key dates for the November 3 election

Mark these on your calendar, and share them with family and neighbors:

• By October 5: County elections offices began mailing ballots to every active registered voter.
• October 19: Last day to register to vote and still receive a ballot by mail.
• After October 19: You can still register and vote the same day at your county elections office or a vote center, using same-day (conditional) registration.
• October 24: The first vote centers open for early in-person voting in Los Angeles County.
• November 3: Election Day. Polls are open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and mailed ballots must be postmarked by that day.

You can check your registration status through the California Secretary of State, and find vote centers and drop boxes at LAVote.gov.

Voter education in Pasadena: the 10-10-10 V-ALERT program

BCCA’s 10-10-10 V-ALERT program is built around three words: Organize. Mobilize. Vote.

Every Friday from August 28 through October 30, from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m., V-ALERT brings residents together to hear from expert speakers, candidates for office, and special guests. Sessions are short, focused, and open to the community.

Each briefing is 45 minutes on Zoom, and the last one before Election Day is Friday, October 30. Registration is through Zoom, so sign up with the Voter Education Briefing link on our upcoming events page.

Hearing directly from leaders and candidates

BCCA has brought elected officials and candidates into the room with Pasadena and Altadena residents. These have included:

• Voting briefings with the Hon. Xavier Becerra and with candidates for Lieutenant Governor
• Voting briefings with local clergy, including Rev. LaKeith Kenebrew of Hillside Tabernacle Church and Rev. Dr. Larry E. Campbell of First AME Church-Pasadena
• A speaker series featuring Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Sheriff Robert Luna, and Senator Sasha Pérez
• Community town hall meetings and the State of the Black Community Summit

These conversations give residents a chance to ask questions directly and make up their own minds. That’s what voter education is about: information, access, and a real voice.

You can learn more about this work through our civic engagement programs.

How to make your voice count this fall

A few simple steps can make sure you and the people you love are ready:

• Check your registration. Moved, changed your name, or not sure you’re registered? Check before October 19.
• Make a plan. Decide whether you’ll vote by mail, use a drop box, or go to a vote center, and when.
• Read your guide. Your county Voter Information Guide explains every measure and race on your ballot.
• Bring someone with you. Check in with an older neighbor, a first-time voter, or a family member who might need help.
• Join a V-ALERT session. Bring your questions and hear from people on the ballot.

Voting is one of the oldest ways our community has stood up for itself. This fall, let’s make sure no one is left out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bring your questions to V-ALERT. The last briefing before Election Day is Friday, October 30, on Zoom. Sign up and invite a neighbor.