It determines the election outcome, deciding better officials and making important decisions and establishing the policies that directly and indirectly affect many areas of our lives such as education, taxes, military operations, health care, food standards and legal codes.
Compared to non-voters, voters are more likely to volunteer, contact their elected officials, and stay informed about local affairs. It is associated with better health outcomes, reduced unemployment, lower recidivism rates.
Voting gives also an opportunity to an individual to exercise their freedom to vote, to express their opinion on a matter and directly impact who is elected.