About Us

Chautauqua Forward

We strives to create a more inclusive and better environment for all. Our mission is to engage with communities on issues that matter most, register people to vote, advertise recruitment for local fire departments, and work with school districts to provide an adequate education for all students. We are consisted of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. A diverse set of minds and opinions is the best way to achieve change that best reflects the interests of the people. We believe that by working together, we are creating a less polarized political and educational environment, and by bringing people together, we all win. We are non-profit, meaning we are run entirely on donations and support FROM the people. We are 100% committed to you, and you only!


About Our President

Braiden McElhaney is a dedicated public servant who loves his community. Braiden has devoted much of his life to public service. In 2019, Braiden worked with the Chautauqua County Board of Elections. Braiden also spent time as a College Senator at SUNY JCC where he worked with local, county, and state officials to discuss improving student and faculty life, along with establishing budgets that provided much needed services to students. Braiden combined his passion for education and public service to run for Westfield Academy and Central School Board of Education in 2020. During his campaign for School Board, he advocated for stronger services in the special education department, more funding for arts education, and providing adequate athletic facilities for students at Westfield Academy and Central School. Braiden currently serves on the Westfield Community Engagement Collaborative (WCEC) as a treasurer and a legislator in his hometown of Westfield, NY.