The League is expanding our capacity to help communities with democracy and civic engagement, with the addition of three familiar faces. Derek Okubo, a former staff and board member of the League, will aid the Center for Democracy Innovation’s civic assistance program. Meanwhile, Civic Genius, a national, nonpartisan organization focused on deliberative democracy, will become a program of the League, bringing along its two main staff members, Jillian Youngblood and Ibrahim Bazyan. Read more.

New Assistance Services for Communities

Civic Innovations in

Public Budgeting

Citizens' Assemblies Capacity Building School

The League has developed a comprehensive, evidence-based set of engagement solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each community. Our wide range of services includes enhancing public meetings, guiding city charter revisions, and deploying civic measurement tools. Explore our new offerings and contact us to create a customized package that fits your community’s specific needs.

It’s rare to hear about civic & democratic innovation in public budgeting. Often, the way in which capital & operational investment planning occurs limits discussion to particular assets or a small portion of a budget, with a decision-making process that involves traditional & limited forms of public input. However, two notable examples of engaging the public in budgeting have emerged. Read more.

FIDE North America is teaming up with the League to host a Citizens’ Assemblies School in Phoenix, Arizona, from October 22-24! This educational event will be held at Arizona State University's Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes, where we will convene practitioners, policymakers, and public officials to strengthen alliances and enhance deliberative skills. Learn more and secure your spot.

ICMA Conference to Feature Better Public Meetings Work

2025 All-America City Award Application is

 Now Available!

National Civic Review Article Calls for 'Return of the Citizen'

At the International City/County Management Association's upcoming conference in Pittsburgh, the League’s Center for Democracy Innovation will showcase its recent efforts to make official meetings more participatory, equitable, and productive. Attendees can also visit us in the exhibit hall to learn about this year’s AAC theme and community assistance offerings.

As communities grapple with the urgent challenges of climate change & environmental degradation, the 2025 AAC Award will recognize communities that demonstrate a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship & sustainability through meaningful community engagement initiatives. Download the application to begin your community's AAC journey!

In the Summer edition of the National Civic Reivew, author Harry Boyte calls for a broader definition of democracy that highlights the vital role of citizens. He contrasts two prevailing meanings of democracy in the United States—one centered on politicians and government, and the other on the agency of the people.

Read more.