Civic Engagement & Economic Development Programs

Civic Engagement

Civic Engagement means that all members of a community are empowered to take actions that make a difference in their lives, families, schools, businesses, governance and neighborhoods. Extension programs offer tools for youth and adult citizens to be positively involved in their communities. This includes equiping Cook County residents to understand public policies and government processes, so that they can actively and effectively communicate with their elected officials and public offices.

Promoting Civic Engagement & Community Leadership

Workshop: "Power of the Pen" (Adults)

A workshop that is offered in various formats: 90 minutes, ½ day, 1 day or 6-week sessions. Attendees learn how to improve their skills in communicating and/or making contact with elected officials and other key community stakeholders. The workshop consists of lessons on the following topics:

• Request information on an issue
• Communicate an issue or concern
• Invite an elected official to speak to your organization or attend your special event
• Congratulate a newly elected official and inform him/her about your organization
• Write a letter to a state or federal legislator requesting s/he vote for or veto a specific bill or referendum

Educator: Margot Williams

Workshop: "Express Yourself" (Youth)

The youth adaptation of Power of the Pen includes the following topics:

• Share your thoughts with significant adults, i.e., parents, teachers, relatives, business contacts, etc.
• Write correspondence expressing appreciation
• Write correspondence requesting assistance
• Invite someone to a special event
• Write a letter to an elected official or community leader
• Dream Journal (Goal Setting)
• Visioning Exercises (Descriptive Writing Exercises)

Educator: Margot Williams