Civic Engagement Fund

Democracy is strongest when people know they belong in it.

For nearly sixty years, UCM has created spaces where people can gather, ask difficult questions, learn from one another, and work together to build a more just community. Civic engagement is about much more than voting every few years. It is about developing the knowledge, relationships, and confidence to participate in the decisions that shape our lives.

That work begins with bringing people together.

Throughout the year, UCM hosts educational programs, guest speakers, workshops, community conversations, vigils, and public events that encourage thoughtful dialogue and meaningful action. We partner with students, local organizations, and grassroots groups to create opportunities for people to engage with important issues, develop practical skills, and strengthen connections across our community.

We believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change.

This past year, UCM hosted de-escalation trainings to help participants safely navigate public demonstrations, coordinated educational opportunities around issues affecting our community, and partnered with organizations throughout Athens County to strengthen civic participation. During the debate surrounding Senate Bill One, we supported students as they prepared testimony for lawmakers, organized opportunities for community members to make their voices heard, and later helped coordinate the statewide referendum campaign. We have welcomed guest speakers, facilitated discussions on timely issues, hosted vigils during moments of grief, and provided space where neighbors can come together to learn from one another.

Not every act of civic engagement happens at a rally or in a legislative hearing.

Sometimes it looks like attending a workshop to better understand an issue. Sometimes it is learning how to safely de-escalate conflict. Sometimes it is listening to a speaker whose experiences differ from your own. Sometimes it is gathering with neighbors for a vigil, a community conversation, or an educational event that inspires someone to become more involved in their community.

These moments matter because they help build informed, connected communities that are better equipped to respond to challenges together.

Your gift to the Civic Engagement Fund supports educational programming, speaker honoraria, workshop materials, accessibility accommodations, event supplies, outreach, and the resources needed to host meaningful community conversations throughout the year. It also helps ensure that these opportunities remain free and accessible so that cost is never a barrier to participation.

At UCM, we believe democracy is not something we simply inherit. It is something we practice together.

Thank you for helping create spaces where people can learn, connect, and discover the power of working together for the common good.

Social Justice