Local Participation

Showing up between elections

Civic life happens wherever people work together to shape their communities—from neighborhood associations and school boards to city councils, civic organizations, volunteer efforts, and direct communication with public officials. Explore ways to participate within your interests, capacity, and community.

• Engage with local government — meetings, public comment, boards, commissions and contacting representatives
• Connect across the community — neighborhood groups, HOAs, schools, civic organizations and local coalitions
• Volunteer, organize or advocate — contribute time, skills, ideas or support to work already underway

Civic Roots organizes participation into seasons of readiness. If you're unsure where you are right now, begin with the Civic Readiness Reflection.

This page is most useful for Season 2 and Season 3 civic readiness.

• Register to vote
• Vote
• Register voters or help with voter registration drives
• Volunteer at polling places
• Attend city council or school board meetings
• Join a neighborhood association or civic club
• Write letters to the editor or op-eds
• Participate in public comment sessions
• Support ballot initiatives or referendums
• Canvass or phone bank for issues or candidates
• Serve on local boards and commissions
• Host or attend candidate forums and roundtables
• Join advocacy groups for causes you care about
• Mentor youth about civic engagement
• Volunteer for community service projects
• Consider running for office

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