Election 2008 is quickly coming to a close. But the work of two student organizations, Young Democrats and College Republicans, is far from over. Both are very busy with voting only six days away.

Young Democrats and College Republicans, groups that are open to anyone in the community, have a lot to do by Nov. 4. Grassroots efforts by both are in full force this week. Aside from preparing for tonight’s debate with each other, both organizations are working hard to get their respective candidates elected. Members of the community can expect canvassing, tabling, high visibility and phone banking from both groups in the coming days.

Zach Charat, founder of UW Students for Barack Obama, has joined with other members and made thousands of Obama buttons. The students pass out “Hope” and “Obama Mama” buttons to anyone who wants them.

“[The buttons] go extremely quick. It’s shocking actually,” Charat said as he worked at a table downstairs in the HUB.

Visibility is also on the agenda for College Republicans. On occasion, students have tabled outside the HUB, passing out John McCain stickers and signs. However, most of the group’s grassroots efforts will be focused on phone banking, said Auggie Eck, president of College Republicans.

“There’s a lot of enthusiasm in the presidential race,” Eck said.

Hoever, that’s not where the College Republicans are focusing right now. The race for governor is their top focus. Even though Obama is ahead of McCain in the polls, Eck said, “We’re gonna keep on fightin’ the good fight.”

Eck is most optimistic about the gubernatorial race between Democratic incumbent Christine Gregoire and Republican candidate Dino Rossi. Gregoire won in 2004 by 133 votes, and currently the race is very close.

“It’s a close race, but things are looking good for Rossi,” Eck said.

Young Democrats will be increasing their hours every day through Nov. 4.

Last Saturday, members waved signs at a tailgating event with Governor Christine Gregoire before the Husky game.

On Oct. 31, 13 members will travel to the battleground state of Colorado to campaign for Obama.

Both College Republicans and Young Democrats saw an increase in members this year.

Eck said College Republicans meetings have drawn close to 100 people at times.

Alex Lark, president of Young Democrats, said he was impressed with his organization’s efforts, noting he was particularly impressed with freshman involvement this year.

“Everyone is stepping up this year,” he said.

Many call this election historic: a black man, a woman, a war hero.

But it can also be called the most important election of one’s lifetime. The stakes are high.

In a message to others in the community, Lark said three words: “Vote, vote, vote.”

Reach contributing writer Laura Mansfield at news@dailyuw.com.