At a time when we should be coming together to make our communities stronger and solve big challenges, Americans are feeling increasingly divided from each other, uncertain about the future and skeptical of democracy’s promises.
The University of Washington wants to revitalize 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 the public institutions that serve us, we will create a more connected, effective society where people can work together to tackle big challenges and build a healthier, more hopeful democracy.
Our plan
To accelerate a movement that revitalizes civic health and bolsters democratic institutions across the country, we first need to demonstrate that we can do this work effectively in our own Washington communities and neighborhoods. We are uniquely positioned to advance this work in Washington and inspire national change: the UW has a track record of serving as a nonpartisan, trusted partner in solving problems at the state and local level, as well as a strong network of partners throughout Washington’s counties, local districts, 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 will prepare tomorrow’s civic-minded community members and leaders to work across differences and build connected, responsive societies.
Renovating and strengthening public institutions
We will 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 will help people across Washington and beyond build trust, respect and an experience of solving pressing challenges together.