BEYOND CIVICS
A program for teens who are motivated to understand differences and bridge divides in service of their communities.
The Challenge.
In a thriving democracy, active participation is essential – but often, this is reduced to voting. Equally vital is community engagement: participation in local initiatives that enhance quality of life and deepen social connections. Surprisingly, only 32% of Gen Z view civic engagement as a combination of both electoral and community involvement—about half the rate of their parents and grandparents (2021 AEI report from PACE research). The result is that Gen Z is tending toward extremes, with some becoming increasingly polarized while others are opting out of civic engagement altogether (Psychology Today).
Our Solution.
Beyond Civics engages teens in civic life while mitigating polarization by training them to be Bridgers: community leaders who uphold principles of pluralism.
Our 10-week program draws on research from the fields of peacekeeping, conflict mediation, and community organizing. And, it’s not a textbook approach to civics -- instead, it's a hands-on, learner-driven program where students design a Community Action Initiative that leverages principles of bridge-building to solve a real-life problem.
This work is funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Ready to partner with us? Here’s how it works.
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Establish a Schedule
We are ready to start whenever you are!
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Strategize Recruitment
8 students? 30 students? Let’s figure it out!
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Train Facilitators
Have a member of your team in mind? We can compensate them! Need a facilitator? We have trained facilitators ready to travel to you!
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Provide Curriculum
Sessions can be lead with digital technologies or good old fashioned pen and paper! We have the materials you need.
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Analyze Impact
Qualitative and quantitative survey results!
Are you a high school student interested in participating in Beyond Civics?
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Gather
Do you know other peers who would be interested in Beyond Civics too? Form a group of three to advocate for Beyond Civics at your school, community center, church, or other shared spaces!
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Advocate
Connect with a leader from your shared space. Maybe they could facilitate, or maybe they make programming decisions. Share why you are interested in Beyond Civics!
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Contact
Contact Vice President of Programs, Jill Carey, to plan for next steps. We’d love connect with you, your peers, and the decision makers to bring Beyond Civics to your community!
