Van Buren County Democratic Party

The Van Buren Democratic Party Presents: A Hartford Hispanic Heritage Dinner on September 23rd
2025-09-02 - 2025-09-23 | Taqueria Y Mariscos El Primo
The Van Buren County Democratic Party invites you to a special dinner fundraiser in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and the Gift of Cuisine the Hispanic culture has shared with America. Please join us on Tuesday, September 23, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Taqueria Y Mariscos El Primo in Hartford for an evening of celebration and community.
Event Details
Location:
Taqueria Y Mariscos El Primo
27 W Main Street in Hartford, Michigan
Tickets: $20.00
Due to limited seating, Purchase Tickets Here or RSVP at Taqueria Y Mariscos El Primo
Should you prefer to take your meal to go, please indicate that when ordering.
Menu
Your meal includes:
• Choice of two tacos (steak, chicken, pork, chorizo, or vegetarian)
• Refried beans and rice
• One non-alcoholic beverage
Gratuity is included in the ticket price. A cash bar will also be available.
Our Guest Speaker
6:00 pm – Guest Speaker: Olivia Villegas
Olivia Villegas, Senior Immigration Attorney, specializes in immigration law and has represented survivors of domestic and sexual violence in immigration cases. We look forward to her sharing her expertise and experiences with us.
Why Attend
This dinner is both a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and an opportunity to support a valued locally owned Hispanic business in the heart of Hartford, as well as the Van Buren County Democratic Party.
We appreciate your support and look forward to sharing this evening with you.

Van Buren County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting
2025-09-04 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | Van Buren Intermediate School District, 490 South Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States
Get ready to dive into the heart of our party’s work. Our next monthly meeting is coming up, and we’ve got a lot to share and discuss.
We’re offering two ways to participate:

In Person: Join us at the Van Buren Intermediate School District Administration, 490 S Paw Paw St, Lawrence for an evening of connection and collaboration. Doors open at 5:00 PM
Online: Can’t make it in person? No problem. Join us via Google Meet. Log in by 5:15 pm to get settled before the Call to Order.
The meeting link is:
meet.google.com/ssq-jdmv-iep

We’re excited to update you on our progress this month and, most importantly, get you involved. Whether you’re passionate about a specific committee or eager to jump into community events, we need your energy and ideas.
This month’s meeting features two special guest presentations. We’ll hear from Jessica Swartz, candidate for Michigan’s 4th Congressional District, as well as Paula, Ashley, and Erin from Community Mental Health and VBISD, who will highlight local programs supporting students and community members across the county.
To make sign-in quick and easy (whether in person or online), please register in advance This helps us prepare and ensures a smooth start to the meeting.

Join the Van Buren Dems at the Wine & Harvest Festival
2025-09-05 - 2025-09-07 | Paw Paw Middle School, 105 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, MI, 49079, United States
Join Us at the Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival.
The Van Buren Democratic Party is excited to be part of this year’s Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival, an annual celebration in the heart of Michigan’s wine country.
Our booth will be set up in front of 105 W Michigan Avenue (Lighten Up / Oo La La Doggie Salon) beginning Friday, September 5. Booth hours are:
Friday, September 5: 5:00 to 10:00 pm
Saturday, September 6: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Sunday, September 7: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to help at our booth. This is a great opportunity to connect with neighbors, share our values, and enjoy one of the community’s biggest events. Sign up for a shift or two at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C054FAAAD29A0F8CE9-57463539-wine#/

March with the Van Buren Dems at the St. Julian Festival Parade
2025-09-07 10:30 - 13:00 | Paw Paw Middle School, 105 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, MI, 49079, United States
The Van Buren Dems will be marching in the St. Julian “Wine & Harvest Festival” Parade on Sunday, September 7th and everyone is invited to join us. Line-up begins at Paw Paw Middle School, 313 W Michigan Avenue in Paw Paw at 10:30 am on Sunday, with step-off at 12:00 noon. Parade entrances close at 11:30 am. The route ends at Freshwater Church.
Whether you volunteer, walk in the parade, or stop by to say hello, we’d love to see you there.

Join the Van Buren Dems Community Book Exchange
2025-09-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Van Buren Intermediate School District, 490 South Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States
The Van Buren County Democrats invite you to join us for our next Book Exchange, a relaxed evening of sharing stories, trading books, and connecting with neighbors.
Thursday, October 9
5:00 – 7:00 pm
ISD Conference Center
490 S Paw Paw Street
Lawrence, Michigan
Everyone is welcome. New and non-members are warmly invited to join us. We’ll provide apple cider and coffee, and we encourage you to bring a light dish – an appetizer, finger food, or dessert – to share.
Please RSVP to Marie at 424.212.2027 or mbotchie63@gmail.com
Come browse, bring a favorite read to pass along, and enjoy time with community members who value good books and good company.

Van Buren Dems Soup Drive – Help Fill the Pantry
2025-09-13 - 2025-10-04 | MI
As the weather turns colder, many families in our community will be turning to local food pantries for support. The Van Buren County Democratic Party is partnering with the Mattawan Area Pantry to help stock their shelves with hearty soups that bring both nourishment and comfort.
We invite you to join our Soup Drive by donating canned or packaged soup. Every donation makes a difference.
Drop-off Locations:
VBCDP Meeting – Thursday, October 2nd, 5:00 – 8:00 pm
Lake Michigan College, 125 Veterans Blvd, South Haven
Look-Sharp Imaging – 37174 Red Arrow Hwy, Paw Paw
(Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm)
VBCDP Event Coordinator – 202 N. LaGrave Street, Paw Paw
(Donations accepted anytime)
Recipient:
Mattawan Area Pantry – mattawanareapantry.org
More Information:
Contact: mbotchie63@gmail.com
Together, we can support our neighbors and ensure no one has to face an empty bowl this season.

Van Buren Dems Events Committee Meeting
2025-09-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Paw Paw District Library, 609 W Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, MI, 49079, United States
Get Involved and Have a Great Time Doing It.
The Events Committee is growing, and there’s never been a better time to get involved. We’re a collaborative team driven by creativity and a passion for bringing people together. Whether you’re full of ideas, have experience organizing events, or just want to explore how you can contribute, we welcome you to join us as we keep building energy and community through our work.
Next Meeting:
Monday, September 15 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm
Paw Paw District Library
609 W Michigan Avenue in Paw Paw
Online: meet.google.com/wka-bgyu-uma
Come be part of a group that’s working with purpose and connecting with our community, we look forward to seeing you.

Join Us for Multicultural Family Fun in Hartford
2025-09-20 | Ely Park, 106 W Main Street, Hartford, 49057, United States
The Van Buren Dems are excited to be part of this year’s Multicultural Family Fun event in Hartford. Please join us on Friday, September 20th, as we celebrate the richness of diversity in our community, presented by the Hartford Hispanic Heritage Committee.
The Committee is looking for volunteers throughout the day (8:00 am–6:00 pm), and we especially need help at our booth from 2:00–6:00 pm. We’ll be offering crafts and activities for children of all ages and would love your support.
For more information or to volunteer, please email mbotchie63@gmail.com

Join Us for a Fun Book Exchange Evening
2025-10-09 17:00 - 19:00 | Van Buren Intermediate School District, 490 South Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States

Van Buren Dems Events Committee Meeting
2025-10-20 18:00 - 19:00 | Paw Paw District Library, 609 W Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, MI, 49079, United States
Get Involved and Have a Great Time Doing It.
The Events Committee is growing, and there’s never been a better time to get involved. We’re a collaborative team driven by creativity and a passion for bringing people together. Whether you’re full of ideas, have experience organizing events, or just want to explore how you can contribute, we welcome you to join us as we keep building energy and community through our work.
Next Meeting:
Monday, October 20 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm
Paw Paw District Library
609 W Michigan Avenue in Paw Paw
Online: meet.google.com/wka-bgyu-uma” rel=”nofollow”>

Meet and Greet with Your Local Precinct Team
2025-10-24 17:30 - 19:30 | Lucky Wolf, 404 E Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI, 49079
Meet and Greet with Your Local Precinct Team
Friday, October 24, 2025
5:30 – 7:30 pm
The Lucky Wolf Café
404 E Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw, Michigan
An Evening of Connection and Community
Join neighbors and friends for a relaxed evening of conversation, food, and friendship.
Meet your local Precinct Delegate team from the Van Buren County Democratic Party and learn how community connections help shape a stronger future.
Food and drinks will be provided.
Casual attire is welcome.
No speeches — just good company and meaningful conversation.
Hosts
Kerry and John Tapper
Doug Cultra
Rick and Deb Wild
Leonda Shroyer
Becky Fatzinger
Marie Botchie
Kathy Murphy
Bill and Joan Balderman
Building a Stronger Van Buren County
Our precinct delegate teams are growing into a connected network of local volunteers, working together to strengthen our community as we look ahead to 2026 and beyond.

Van Buren County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting
2025-11-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Lawrence ISD, 490 S Paw Paw St, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States
Get ready to dive into the heart of our party’s work. Our next monthly meeting is coming up, and we’ve got a lot to share and discuss.
We’re offering two ways to participate:

In Person: Join us at the Van Buren Intermediate School District Administrat, 490 S Paw Paw St, Lawrence for an evening of connection and collaboration. Doors open at 5:00 PM
Online: Can’t make it in person? No problem! Join us via Google Meet. Log in by 5:15 PM to get settled before the Call to Order.

We’re excited to update you on our progress this month and, most importantly, get YOU involved! Whether you’re passionate about a specific committee or eager to jump into community events, we need your energy and ideas.
To make sign-in quick and easy (whether in person or online), please register in advance This helps us prepare and ensures a smooth start to the meeting.

Drive for Democracy November 8: A Car Caravan Protest and Food Drive
2025-11-08 10:30 - 2025-11-09 02:00 | MI
Join Indivisible Paw Paw for Drive for Democracy, a car caravan protest and food drive this Saturday, November 8, traveling from South Haven to Paw Paw and then to Kalamazoo. Check the poster for schedules. Each community will be collecting non-perishable food for pantries in their area. We are accepting only non-perishable goods.
Early drop off sites for food items are available now at the following locations in Van Buren County:
• The Lucky Wolf, Paw Paw
• Kellogg Hardware, Hartford
• Harding’s Grocery Store, Bangor
Participants in the caravan may bring their non-perishable food items on the day of the event to the Van Buren County Courthouse Parking Lot. Indivisible Paw Paw will also be accepting cash donations as well for county food pantries.
Windshield markers are suggested, available at Meijer, Blain’s, and Auto Zone. Please use only positive, pro-democracy messages. Visit www.indivisibleswm.org/ for Vehicle Decorating Rules.
Also, Indivisible Paw Paw website has a link at the top of the home page for many of the food pantries and food distribution programs in Southwest Michigan. Check it out and pass the info on to others who are in need.
Everyone is welcome to join us this Saturday, visit https://www.indivisibleswm.org/home

Van Buren County Democratic Party Monthly Meeting
2025-12-04 17:00 - 20:00 | Lake Michigan College South Haven, 125 Veterans Blvd, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
Get ready to dive into the heart of our party’s work. Our next monthly meeting is coming up, and we’ve got a lot to share and discuss.
We’re offering two ways to participate:

In Person: Join us at the Lake Michigan College – South Haven Campus, 125 Veterans Dr, South Haven for an evening of connection and collaboration. Doors open at 5:00 PM
Online: Can’t make it in person? No problem! Join us via Google Meet. Log in by 5:15 PM to get settled before the Call to Order.

We’re excited to update you on our progress this month and, most importantly, get YOU involved! Whether you’re passionate about a specific committee or eager to jump into community events, we need your energy and ideas.
To make sign-in quick and easy (whether in person or online), please register in advance This helps us prepare and ensures a smooth start to the meeting.

Donuts with Dems
2025-12-06 10:00 - 12:00 | VBC Dems Hartford Office, 4 W Main Street, Hartford, MI, 49057, United States
Kickstart Your Morning at Donuts With Dems.
Join us for Donuts with Dems Saturday, December 6 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at our Hartford Office at 4 W Main Street in Hartford.
This monthly gathering is a chance to connect with open-minded neighbors, share ideas, and talk about the state of our country in a welcoming space. We’ll also be putting our creative energy to work by making signs for upcoming peaceful protests and rallies and we’d love your help. A variety of crafts will be available for kids of all ages.
Stop by on the first Saturday of every month between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm for coffee, donuts, and great conversation. Everyone is welcome.

Van Buren Dems "Dignity of Clean Laundry" Drive
2025-12-10 - 2026-01-08 | Van Buren Intermediate School District, 490 South Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States
The Van Buren Democratic Party Presents:
Dignity of Clean Laundry Drive
From now until January 8, the Van Buren Dems are collecting laundry detergent (bottles, boxes, or sheets) for our Dignity of Clean Laundry community drive. Your donation helps local families through the We Care Community Resource Center in South Haven.
Drop-Off Locations:
We Care Community Resource Center
1301 M-43, South Haven
269-637-4342
Look-Sharp Imaging
37174 Red Arrow Hwy, Paw Paw
Monday–Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
VBCDP Event Coordinator’s Office
202 N LaGrave Street, Paw Paw
Donations accepted anytime
Special Collection:
VBCDP January Meeting
VBISD Conference Center
490 S Paw Paw Street, Lawrence
Thursday, January 8 • 5:00–8:00 pm
Questions or Nearby Drop-Off:
To arrange a nearby drop-off, please contact mbotchie63@gmail.com
Please mention the Van Buren Dems if you donate directly to the We Care Community Resource Center. Together, we can ensure every neighbor has what they need this winter—including the dignity of clean laundry.

Join Our Holiday Social at The Lucky Wolf
2025-12-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Lucky Wolf, 404 E Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI, 49079
Christmas and Hanukkah Social
Thursday, December 11
The Lucky Wolf, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
404 E. Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI 49079
Please join us for a warm and welcoming holiday gathering at The Lucky Wolf. This low key social event is open to all members, guests, and new precinct participants from across our communities. It is a chance to connect, relax, and enjoy good company during the holiday season.
Food will be available for purchase from The Lucky Wolf Cafe.
Our gathering will include the Second Annual Christmas Ornament Exchange. If you would like to take part in the exchange, simply bring a wrapped ornament and you will be able to take one home with you.
We look forward to seeing you there.

Events Committee Monthly Meeting - Be Part of Our Events Team
2025-12-15 18:00 - 19:00 | MI
The Events Committee is growing, and now is a good time to get involved. We are a team that values creativity, collaboration, and connection. Whether you have new ideas, event planning experience, or just an interest in helping, your participation is welcome.
Next Meeting:
Date: Monday, December 15
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: This month we will be meeting online via Google Meet. Join us by clicking on https://meet.google.com/wka-bgyu-uma
Join us as we work to build community and create opportunities for people to come together. We look forward to seeing you.

Ongoing Protests at Rep. Bill Huizenga’s Office In Portage
2025-12-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Rep Bill Huizenga’s Office, 5228 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI, 49002, United States
The Van Buren Dems continue to remind our Representative, Bill Huizenga that he works for us, his constituents. Join us every Friday from 12:00 to 1:00 pm outside his Portage Office at 5228 Lovers Lane, Suite 108 in Portage. Bring your signs, snacks and friends.
Everyone is welcome.

Kickstart Your Saturday Morning at Donuts With Dems
2026-01-03 10:00 - 12:00 | VBC Dems Hartford Office, 4 W Main Street, Hartford, MI, 49057, United States
Join us for Donuts with Dems Saturday, January 3 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at our Hartford Office at 4 W Main Street in Hartford.
This monthly gathering is a chance to connect with open-minded neighbors, share ideas, and talk about the state of our country in a welcoming space. We’ll also be putting our creative energy to work by making signs for upcoming peaceful protests and rallies and we’d love your help. A variety of crafts will be available for kids of all ages.
Stop by on the first Saturday of every month between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm for coffee, donuts, and great conversation. Everyone is welcome.

VBCDP January Monthly Meeting
2026-01-08 17:00 - 20:00 | Van Buren Intermediate School District, 490 South Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI, 49064, United States
Mark your calendars – the Van Buren County Democratic Party’s monthly meeting is Thursday, January 8th. This is your chance to stay connected, hear the latest updates, and help shape the work ahead.
You can take part in whichever way works best for you:
In Person:
VBISD Conference Center, 490 S Paw Paw Street in Lawrence
Thursday, January 8 • 5:00–8:00 pm
Doors open at 5:00 pm for a chance to mingle before the meeting begins at 5:30 pm.
Online:
Prefer to join from home? Log in to Google Meet by 5:15 pm to get settled before the Call to Order at: meet.google.com/ssq-jdmv-iep
For more information,contact us at: https://vanburendems.org/contact/

Subscribe To Our Newsletter
2026-01-10 00:00 - 2026-02-24 23:59 | MI
Stay Connected with the Van Buren Dems 📫
Learn about upcoming events, recent activities, and ways to get involved in your community.
Subscribe to our e-newsletter at https://vanburendems.org and stay informed.

Make a Difference - Join the Van Buren Democratic Party Today
2026-01-11 - 2026-03-18 | Lake Michigan College South Haven, 125 Veterans Blvd, South Haven, MI, 49090, United States
The political climate has become dangerously divisive, and families across Van Buren County are paying the price. From farmers to seniors, veterans to children, we are all losing the benefits we once trusted Democratic leadership to protect, while Republicans in Lansing and Washington make decisions that serve only themselves.
We are a group of caring community members who meet monthly and decide the best ways each of us can do our part. Event participation, data collecting, content creation and canvassing are just a few of the many ways to get involved.
Our next Van Buren County Democratic Party meeting is Thursday, December 4 at 5:00 pm at Lake Michigan College – South Haven Campus, 125 Veterans Dr, South Haven. Everyone is welcome. Come learn how you can help make a positive difference in our community. For more information, visit https://vanburendems.org/event/van-buren-county-democratic-party-monthly-meeting-5/
We urgently need your voice, your energy and your help. The fight to protect democracy is real, and we cannot do it without you. Start by joining the Van Buren Dems today and help turn things around: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/vanburen-mdp

Volunteers Needed At Our Hartford Office
2026-01-11 09:30 - 2026-06-14 12:00 | VBC Dems Hartford Office, 4 W Main Street, Hartford, MI, 49057, United States
Lend a Hand at Our Hartford Office.
Help us grow our grassroots network. We’re looking for engaged Democrats to help staff our Hartford office on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to show up and support the work.
Interesting in helping? Sign up here:
Sign Up Here
Questions? Reach out to us at: info@vanburendems.org

Van Buren County Democratic Party Office Hours
2026-01-12 09:30 - 2026-07-27 12:00 | VBC Dems Hartford Office, 4 W Main Street, Hartford, MI, 49057, United States
The Van Buren County Democratic Party Office is currently open one day a week to serve as your resource for information and engagement.
Saturdays
9:30 am – 12:00 pm
4 W Main Street
Hartford, Michigan 49057
We offer a selection of Democratic Party merchandise and yard signs in exchange for a modest donation, as well as printed materials on upcoming meetings, events, activities, and candidates. Whether you’re looking to stay informed or get involved, we also provide a range of volunteer opportunities with the Van Buren County Democrats.
Visit us to stay informed, pick up materials, or learn how you can make a difference at.
