Civic Engagement

Where Do I Start?

• The Many Ways to Make an Impact

  • There are many forums that provide opportunities for citizen participation in community engagement. For example, high school students can engage in civic learning through internships with charity organizations that help the homeless. While youth civic engagement in service learning is important, engaged citizens of all ages can partake in the public interest in different ways. Civic participation can mean voting, serving in a jury, using social media to raise awareness on controversial issues, or even peacefully protesting an injustice for the well-being of civil society.

    Political activities, including running for office or attending city council meetings, can empower local communities to shape their public affairs. Mobilizing volunteers, reaching out to voters, and improving the civic education of the electoral base in any municipality can go a long way toward improving public policy. Similarly, collectives of concerned citizens, i.e., community organizations, may form partnerships with local governments to influence political decision-making for the benefit of underserved populations. For example, non-profit charities can lobby city councils to increase spending for mental health facilities, hospitals, and housing shelters for vulnerable people.