4 Ways to take part in Civic Engagement
One of the greatest things young people can learn about themselves is that their voices and actions have an impact. Once this is realized, it’s hard to overstate the changes that can be made in the world around us.
Civic engagement—the act of working to identify and address issues of concern to the community—is one of the best ways for young people to go out and impact change. This comes in many forms.
According to the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement Circle at Tufts University, civic engagement can be divided into three categories: civic, electoral, and political voice. From voting to volunteering to fundraising — or even political protest — all forms of civic engagement carry unique values and benefits. What matters is that you’re a part of the conversation.
Here are 4 reasons why you should consider diving in and taking part in civic engagement in your city:
Voting – Your vote matters. We’ve all heard it before, but it bears repeating. Few forms of civic engagement are more empowering than taking part in democracy and casting your ballot on election day. Stay informed, make sure you’re registered, and help your community put responsible, service-minded people into elected office.
Serving on nonprofit boards: A nonprofit needs strong leadership if it’s going to have a big impact in the community it serves. By joining a board, you can help guide a nonprofit’s executive director to success. All you need to do is volunteer your time and expertise, and act as an ambassador to the organization’s cause in the community.
Protest: There are few things more inspiring than seeing young people exercising their right to assemble and speak truth to power. From DREAMers fighting to safely live in the country they call home, to teenagers taking to the streets in protest of the nation’s lax gun laws, time and again youth in America have led the way for change. The power of protest is real.
Volunteerism: Help build a house with Habitat for Humanity. Serve a meal at an emergency homeless shelter. Assist patients and visitors at your local hospital. Even if you already serve on a nonprofit board, there is nothing quite like going out in your community and volunteering. You’ll meet new people, learn new things and remember why it is you fight for the things you do. Volunteerism can also open up opportunities to share your passions with the community. Are you an art enthusiast? Organize a public art show!
Civic engagement ultimately benefits both you and your community. Your voice matters, and your experiences can help shape the conversation. So get out there and make yourself a part of the discussion, a part of the solution, and see for yourself the impact you’ll have.