ERLANGER-ELSMERE, KY — November 2026 — Every vote counts, even when the candidates are Candy and Toys!
Erlanger-Elsmere School Board Member-Elect Kentucky Colonel Serena Owen proudly celebrates the enthusiastic participation of 485 young voters, ages 17 and under, in her family’s annual Kids Vote initiative, held during local Trunk or Treat celebrations.
Launched a few years ago, this fun, family-friendly tradition encourages children to experience voting firsthand, express their preferences, and discover the importance of civic engagement.
THE OFFICIAL KIDS VOTE RESULTS!
• 🍬 CANDY: 235 votes (48.5%)
• 🧸 TOY: 250 votes (51.5%)
• TOTAL: 485 votes cast
• WINNER: TOY—BY JUST 15 VOTES!
“This exciting election reminds us that every voice matters and every vote can make a difference!” said Serena Owen, educator, missionary, and School Board Member-Elect. “When we empower children to participate, we plant seeds of confidence, leadership, and lifelong civic responsibility!”
Research supports this mission! According to a 2024 Tufts University CIRCLE study, 81% of young people who strongly recalled having their voices valued in high school reported being extremely likely to vote, compared with just 44% who did not recall those experiences. This reinforces the importance of encouraging youth participation early.
Erlanger Councilwoman Renee Wilson, missionary and longtime community advocate, shared, “Watching children proudly cast their ballots was heartwarming! Civic education begins with opportunities to listen, learn, participate, and respect everyone’s choices.”
Larry Owen, retired educator, U.S. Marine Veteran, and Kenton County Soil & Water Conservation District Board Supervisor, added, “A 15-vote victory proves every vote matters! We’re teaching children that participation, fairness, and good citizenship strengthen our communities.”
The Owen family extends heartfelt appreciation to every young voter and especially the parents, guardians, event organizers, and volunteers who made this joyful civic learning experience possible.
Congratulations, Team Toy! Thank you, Team Candy! Most importantly, Congratulations to ALL 485 young voters! Today’s Kids Vote participants are tomorrow’s community leaders!
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Research Reference: Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), Tufts University. (2024). Youth Who Develop Their Voice in High School Are More Likely to Vote. https://circle.tufts.edu/latest-research/youth-who-develop-their-voice-high-school-are-more-likely-vote
