For the first time in its long history, the National Civic League is partnering with the National League of Cities (NLC) to expand the reach and impact of the All-America City Award. Through this collaboration, NLC will engage its vast network of city leaders and municipal stakeholders to amplify best practices and success stories from participating communities so that they can be shared and scaled for broader impact.

At a time of rapid change and uncertainty, the All-America City Award remains committed to its mission of unearthing local promising practices that demonstrate exceptional civic innovation and engagement while solving local challenges and seizing opportunities. This year’s theme, Strengthening Environmental Sustainability, invites communities to showcase how they are building a more sustainable and resilient future through inclusive, community-driven solutions.

Communities interested in being recognized as one of this year’s All-America Cities have until March 6^th to apply. Apply today or support the program to help celebrate and elevate civic innovation.

Rebecca Trout

Director, All-America City Award

National Civic League

Extending Innovations to the Economic Realm

Improving Civic Health in Rhode Island

Democracy Enthusiasts: Volunteer With Us!

To create meaningful change, democratic innovation must extend beyond institutions and into the economic realm, fostering a more democratic economy. By addressing systemic inequalities at their roots, we move closer to unlocking the transformative potential of inclusive democracy. Consider alternative democracy and economic innovations as pathways to supporting quality of life and well-being.  

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In response to calls to address deepening divisions, the loss of trust in institutions, and a growing sense of isolation, the Rhode Island Foundation partnered with the League to help communities strengthen civic health. Through research, interviews, and stakeholder convenings, the Action Guide for Improving Civic Health in Rhode Island was developed. Explore the guide and reach out to discuss how to strengthen civic life in your state.

The Healthy Democracy Ecosystem Map has grown to feature over 7,000 organizations across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with an additional 2,000 organizations in the pipeline awaiting confirmation and inclusion. But we can’t do this alone—we need your support to strengthen and expand the map further. Join our month-long volunteer effort to locate missing email addresses for organizations featured on the Map. Volunteer!

Transparent & Innovative Leadership Selection

Civic Learning Week Returns in March 

Winter Edition:

National Civic Review

Selecting a superintendent is one of the most impactful decisions a school board makes, shaping the education and development trajectory. A superintendent is a leader who embodies the district’s values and vision, serving as a bridge between schools and the community. Engaging the public in hiring a new superintendent is one way to generate civic participation and foster trust in a school board. 

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Save the Date! Civic Learning Week returns March 10–14, bringing together students, educators, policymakers, and civic leaders for a week of engaging online and in-person events. This nationwide initiative highlights the critical role of civic education in sustaining and strengthening our constitutional democracy. Together, we can champion civic education as a national priority. Learn more.

The Winter edition of NCR explores the intersection of civic engagement, democracy, and community wellbeing. This issue highlights how collaborative local innovations reshape public safety & address homelessness. We also spotlight the growing movement of participatory governance & the critical role of creativity in fostering human flourishing.

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