Programs
Our Programs
Deliberative Democracy
Citizen Assemblies
Policymakers are used to hearing from the loudest voices, those with the time and resources to show up make noise. Citizen assemblies bring in the voices we don’t always hear and put them on equal footing – in a solutions-focused setting without divisive political antics. In a citizen assembly, a randomly selected, representative group of people comes together across ideological and demographic differences to learn about, deliberate on, and recommend solutions to key public policy questions. Around the world, more than 600 citizen assemblies have driven real government action. Civic Genius works with communities across the country to build citizen assemblies into civic life.
It’s Your America
A citizen problem-solving initiative that brings together Americans from across the political spectrum to learn about, discuss, and tackle critical national issues. Learn more here – and let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram if you’re interested in bringing an event to your community!
Citizen Panel Initiative
A partnership with the University of Maryland’s Program for Public Consultation and Voice of the People, this initiative convenes members of Congress and their constituents to identify and discuss areas of common ground. Each Citizen Panel events begins with a policymaking simulation in which constituents learn the basics of an issue, weigh the pros and cons of various policy proposals, then register their views through an online survey. Next, they have the option to attend a face-to-face (or screen-to-screen) conversation with their member of Congress, where they can share comments, ask questions, and hear firsthand how the legislative process plays out in Washington.
Civic Education
Genius Guides
Does it seem like the system is built for insiders? We know the feeling. That’s why we created Genius Guides, our built-for-anyone roadmaps to understanding our government and what citizens can do to make a difference. They are designed to put anyone on a path to active citizenship, from town council to Congress.
Civics for Everyone
Through live events and video, we provide opportunities to engage easily from anywhere. During any given week, you can tune in for advocacy workshops, issue explainers, expert interviews, and discussions with real people who have made a difference. Our tools, education, and advice are for everyone: Instacart drivers, teachers, white collar professional working from home, overnight security guards, parents who have a few minutes to spare while the baby naps – you get the idea.
Trainings & Workshops
Are you ready to build your organization’s civic muscle? Whether you want to learn the nuts and bolts of civic action, engage more deeply with your local community, or solve problems across ideological differences, Civic Genius teaches the skills you need to create a stronger civic culture. Our trainings and workshops are fun and fulfilling – and always nonpartisan.
We work with:
- Business leaders
- Elected officials
- Governments
- Colleges and universities
- Greek life organizations
- K-12 schools
- Faith communities
- Community leaders & organizations
Our team works with you to customize a learning experience for your organization’s leaders, specific teams, and groups of any size. Most sessions last from one to three hours, and can take place at your offices, offsite, or virtually.
Request more information at hello@civicgenius.org!