Civic University© (Civic U©) was developed in partnership with the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti and launched in 2014 to empower communities to better understand, engage with, and advocate within their local governments. The program arose from a shared belief that there are immense gaps in public knowledge and understanding of how Los Angeles city government works, and that as a result, people in many communities feel that they cannot effectively influence their government. Civic U© seeks to close those gaps based on the fundamental belief that an informed community is the foundation for a more active, effective, and engaged citizenry.
By providing essential tools and resources, the program enables participants to navigate the complexities of local government, access and interact with elected officials, and advocate for policies that address their needs and priorities. The aim is to help people have more impact on government by increasing their understanding of the system design and how it functions in practice. The curriculum goes beyond explaining the formal processes of local government by looking at why things happen as they do. What are the key access points within local government?
Curriculum
Civic U© offers sessions that help participants understand local Los Angeles governance structures and policymaking processes. These sessions cover topics such as understanding the budget process, the roles of different government offices, municipal versus county governance structures, and strategies for influencing decision-makers. With an emphasis on direct engagement between community members and local leaders, the program curriculum fosters opportunities for participants to engage with their elected officials, city administrators, and other stakeholders.
The program continues to evolve to provide a comprehensive understanding of local governance. While initially focusing on the Los Angeles City government, the curriculum has since expanded to include a broader scope of topics. The Institute has developed Civic U© modules about the County of Los Angeles, the City of Los Angeles’s Mayoral form of government, and council-manager forms of government, the role of locally appointed boards and commissions, as well as the governance of the Los Angeles Unified School District. Whether working with advocates, nonprofit organizations, or community leaders, the tailored curriculum ensures participants receive relevant and practical knowledge they can apply immediately.
The Institute offers a non-credit certificate Civic U© program in local government, delivered through Cal State LA’s Professional and Global Education office. This program provides participants with a deeper understanding of the mechanics of local governance. The certificate program includes a mix of classroom learning and hands-on activities. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate that signifies their enhanced understanding of local governance and readiness to take on community leadership roles.
The Institute’s training program provides youth with a strong civic education.