At Civic Nebraska, we know it’s the conversations in the boardroom and around the dinner table that move the work forward in Nebraska towns. Our rural civic health programs provide strategic support to current and aspiring leaders, citizen journalists, and small groups leading tough conversations.
We partner with towns and rural areas throughout our state to fortify civic health, civic leadership, advance civil discourse, and bolster local media. Take a closer look below.
The Idea of America Fellowship
A nonpartisan leadership experience for current and aspiring Nebraska elected officials to make meaningful connections and better understand the idea of America, why it matters, and their special role in defending U.S. democracy.
Civil Discourse
Resources
›› 2022 Crossing Divides Report on News Media Consumption Habits and Preferences
›› A curated list of civil discourse activities and resources
›› Get in touch with us to go deeper: daniel.bennett@civicnebraska.org
Documenters
Initiative
A partnership with the Nebraska Journalism Trust, Documenters Nebraska fills a vital need for reporting and accountability in rural news deserts. This project trains and pays citizen reporters to report on public meetings and publish their notes.
Civic Readiness
A quiz to help you assess the civic readiness of a small group and your community to make progress on a particular issue or project, and a library of action ideas. Results will provide feedback and resources to build on strengths and address weaknesses.
›› Go to the library of action areas and resources
›› Printable civic readiness assessment guide
Civic Health Workshops
Understand the four indicators of civic health and why they matter to thriving communities. Participants in our interactive sessions identify the strengths and weaknesses of each indicator in their community.
›› To request a workshop or presentation in your community, contact Daniel Bennett, Civic Nebraska rural civic health program manager.
Email
daniel.bennett@civicnebraska.org
Office phone
402.901.5191
CIVIC NEBRASKA NEWS
Nominate a Nebraskan for a Strengthening Democracy Award
On June 27, Civic Nebraska will honor five Nebraskans whose acts help to build a more modern and robust democracy. Through May 17, we’re accepting nominations from the public in five categories of democracy-building.
Voting rights info headed to Nebraska’s county jails
The right to vote is fundamental. We and our partners are dedicated to providing clarity and ensuring that justice-impacted individuals understand and can exercise their right to vote.
Civic health in the wake of disaster
The moment the skies cleared Friday, Nebraskans got to work – and in doing so, embodied our state’s strong civic health.