MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Residents in Mecklenburg County can push for change in their community by serving on an advisory committee. It's like serving without getting elected. 

Mecklenburg County Manager Dena Diorio says these committees play an instrumental role in county commissioners’ developing policies.

It’s one way residents can help in the governing process.

“We really encourage people that have certain skills or certain passions to really explore the opportunities to serve on an advisory board,” she said.

The county has 47 advisory boards ranging from air quality and transit services to the women’s advisory board.

Some boards require experience and some level of expertise, like human resources and the information technology boards. But Diorio added some boards only require a little passion.

“If you have a passion about something, there’s something there for you,” she said. “So don’t feel like you have to be an expert in any certain area. Just explore all the openings we have, and see if there’s something that might be a good fit for you.”

You must be a Mecklenburg County resident to apply for a board.

To find all the advisory boards and requirements, head to mecknc.gov.