As I've grown older I've realized more and more that this is the only way for citizens voices to be truly heard. You aren't going to outspend the big donors and you aren't going to out influence the lobbyists. If you want a particular rule set or laws to be enacted you'd better vote for the politicians who agree with your worldview.
Mad that the FCC has repealed net neutrality? Vote for congress members who are pro-NN.
Mad that national parks have had their land area significantly reduced? Vote for pro national park congress members.
Mad that we're giving a huge tax cat to billionaires and corporations and yet the middle class gets a temporary reprieve? Vote for congress members who want to deliver true tax reform.
I could go on and on but I think you get the point.