Philosophical pragmatism offers local policy-makers valuable insights when addressing complex problems such as poverty, economic development and healthcare and homelessness, especially when it comes to “wicked problems” with no single source or solution.
In 2018, Wichita, Kansas, replaced an existing citizens’ academy with a new Civic Engagement Academy designed to be more interactive for participants and less taxing for city staff. The result is a new, more engaged cadre of community leaders.
Civic leaders are looking for ways to engage younger members of the public and mine community data for insights and solutions. Civic hacking is one good way for cities and organizations to promote both learning and public participation.
Safe and stable housing can promote good health and enhance well-being when it is within reach of public transportation, healthy foods, medical care, schools and other vital destinations, but it comes at a high cost and continues to be inaccessible to many.
National studies have found that people with more education report being in better health when compared to people with less education. Education’s impact on well-being not only adds to personal fulfillment, it helps to extend life expectancy and even makes the next generation healthier.
Over the last decade Welcoming America has supported civic leaders across the country to build trust and navigate the sweeping demographic changes in their communities.
What does it take to be a bridgebuilder in an era of mistrust and political discord? Five themes emerged from in-depth interviews with government, nonprofit sector and business leaders in two North Carolina cities.
Universal programs often distribute resources where they are not most needed. Targeted programs, on the other hand, are politically vulnerable. Targeted universalism sidesteps those problems by focusing on broad goals followed by specific strategies.
An experiment in deliberatively-enhanced journalism is offering important lessons on the potential for using online platforms to educate and engage the public during election season.
