HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — People who want to learn more about city government and its role within the Huntsville community should apply now for the Civic Engagement Academy’s (CEA) fall 2024 session.
Presented by the City’s Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI), the CEA is a free, six-week program that aims to empower and educate individuals on community involvement. The program combines both classroom and interactive instruction, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of civic engagement. This is the 3rd year the academy is being offered.
Huntsville officials are looking for people in the community to step up. “The Civic Engagement Academy is more than a program; it’s a gateway to fostering positive community impact,” said Kenny Anderson, Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. “We encourage all eligible individuals who share our commitment to community involvement to apply and embark on this transformative journey with us.”
For those looking to find information themselves, it's another reason why they should apply. Anderson says, "There are lots of reasons why people are coming here and they need information in order to be successful. It gives people a chance to choose to participate in something that can literally make a positive impact on their community."
The fall 2024 session kicks off with orientation on Sept. 24, paving the way for an enlightening journey for the selected cohorts. Subsequent classes will be held every Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. Topics are as follows:
- Sept. 24: Orientation / How Our City Operates
- Oct. 1: Our City Growing
- Oct. 8: Our City Safe, Secure & Responding
- Oct. 15: Our City at Work at City Hall
- Oct. 22: Our City Maintaining
- Oct. 29: Our City Engaging
- Nov. 5: Our Community Resources
- Nov. 19: Graduation
The CEA is open to the first 50 applicants who meet eligibility requirements. Applicants must be at least 19 years old and either a resident, business owner or student in Huntsville or the surrounding area. The program is also open to aspiring or established local influencers with a genuine desire to enhance community involvement.
Since registrations opened on Monday, the city has seen over 100 applications come to their desk. The deadline to apply is August 16, 2024.
Selected participants are expected to commit to attending at least five out of six classes to successfully graduate from the program. The curriculum covers a range of topics designed to heighten civic awareness and engagement, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact within the community.
Those interested can apply here or visit here.