At a time when we should be coming together to make our communities stronger and solve big challenges, Americans are feeling increasingly divided, uncertain about the future and skeptical of democracy’s promises.
The University of Washington is committed to revitalizing the nation’s civic health by fostering trust, collaboration and engagement in local communities, starting with Washington and expanding nationwide.
By strengthening civic participation and confidence in public institutions, we can build a more connected and effective society, capable of tackling big challenges and creating a healthier, more hopeful democracy.
Our plan
To accelerate a movement that revitalizes civic health and bolsters democratic institutions across the country, we must first demonstrate our ability to work effectively within Washington’s communities and neighborhoods. We are uniquely positioned to advance this work in Washington and inspire national change. The UW has a track record as a nonpartisan, trusted partner in solving problems at the state and local level, supported by a strong network of partners throughout Washington’s counties, municipalities, school districts and more.
To strengthen our connections and our communities, we are simultaneously investing in three areas of civic life and culture that depend on and affect each other.
Preparing tomorrow’s civic-minded leaders
We prepare tomorrow’s civic-minded community members and leaders to work across differences and build connected, responsive societies.
Renovating and strengthening public institutions
We rebuild a culture of trust in public life by sharing research, applications, tools and practices that help institutions become more accessible places for democratic practices and problem-solving.
Clearing the paths to civic participation
We help people across Washington and beyond build trust, respect and an experience of solving pressing challenges together.