Developing Skills in Engaged Citizens

Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. Engaged citizens promote the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes. To be most impactful as an engaged citizen, important skills to develop include an ability to:

  • Obtain and process information
  • Verbally communicate with persons inside and outside an organization
  • Work in a team environment
  • Plan, organize, and prioritize work
  • Make decisions and solve problems
  • Have a mindset committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion

National Resources

Campus Compact enables campuses to develop students’ citizenship skills and forge effective community partnerships. Their resources support faculty and staff as they pursue community-based teaching and scholarship in the service of positive change. 

Journals

Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement

The JHEOE serves as the premier peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal to advance theory and practice related to all forms of outreach and engagement between higher education institutions and communities.

Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning

Since 1994, the Ginsberg Center has published the Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning (MJCSL), which is widely recognized as a leader in the field of community-engaged scholarship.  

Service-Learning 

Local Spaces for Collaborative Efforts

The CommonSpot

The CommonSpot on the Ithaca Commons attracts a diverse group of members who share high-speed Internet, office amenities, desk space, meeting rooms, empowering events, and an active community working toward the common good. 

Rev

Rev is Ithaca's center for growing ideas and launching businesses.

The Just Be Cause Not-for-Profit Development Center, Inc. 

JBCC is for area not-for-profits and strives to create a space where these groups can conduct business in a professional and modern setting. Spacious and bright offices, combined with a well-appointed conference room, a commercial kitchen, two multi-purpose rooms as well as a beautiful covered patio facing the waterfront, allow for a variety of activities to occur.