“You’re reminders of what democracy looks like when it’s built from the ground up!” said Derek Kilmer, newly appointed Senior Vice President at the Rockefeller Foundation and former Congressman, to this year’s finalists for the All-America City Award. “It’s all about civic engagement and trust and accountability,” added Mary Thomas, Executive Director of CFLeads. Congratulations to the winners and finalists of this year’s award, communities that are leading the way on inclusive democracy to address America’s toughest challenges!

Doug Linkhart

President

National Civic League

Congratulations,

2025 All-America Cities!

Relive #AAC2025 Remarks from Civic Leaders

Reimagining Congressional Town Halls

Finalists for the 2025 All-America City Award gathered in Denver to showcase how they’re advancing environmental sustainability through community-driven action. Finalist teams reflected a broad cross-section of society, bringing diverse ages, backgrounds, and perspectives to the table. Ten communities were named winners for their innovative efforts and strong civic infrastructure, driving lasting change.

Read more.

The 2025 All-America City Award Event featured an inspiring lineup of keynote speakers who explored the topics of civic leadership, grassroots action, and democratic and environmental resilience. Leaders from philanthropy, government, and the nonprofit sector shared powerful insights on community impact and the evolving civic landscape. Watch the livestreams to catch their remarks and more from this unforgettable weekend.

Lately, congressional town halls have ranged from packed and positive to tense and chaotic. In many places, members of Congress have chosen not to hold public events at all. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Civic Genius is teaming up with Rep. Adam Smith (WA-9) to pilot a reimagined town hall, designed to foster thoughtful, inclusive dialogue on public safety, mental health, and behavioral health. Read more.

Citizens' Assemblies and Losers’ Consent

Mount Pleasant Honors Historic Scanlonville

The Quiet Power of the Potluck

What if losing didn’t mean walking away angry? A new study of a citizen deliberative assembly in Longueuil, Quebec, reveals how even those on the “losing” side of a vote can feel satisfied—when the process is fair, respectful, and inclusive. Through deep discussion, expert input, and mutual listening, participants developed trust in the process and one another. The result? Strong support for democratic outcomes—even without legislative power. Read more. 

A three-time All-America City, Mount Pleasant, SC embodies the values of the award through its latest project: the Scanlonville Praise House Parklet. Created in partnership with the East Cooper Civic Club and local universities, the parklet will honor the legacy of a post-Civil War settlement founded by formerly enslaved people. Blending history, reflection, and community design, the parklet reflects the town's commitment to equity and civic pride. Read more.

In rural Maine, a simple tradition is making a powerful impact. Through Community Plate’s Story Sharing Suppers, Karl Schatz and his team are using food and storytelling to combat loneliness, foster connection, and rebuild civic life—one potluck at a time. With over 30 events across the state, their work shows how gathering around a shared table can spark real, lasting community. Read the full story for in the latest edition of the League's National Civic Review.