The Institute provides a non-credit certificated program in local government, through Cal State LA’s Professional and Global Education (PaGE) office. Participants receive a thorough understanding of who governs municipal entities, their services and budgets, and how neighborhoods can influence the budget process.

The Institute has partnered with the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment to offer this program to neighborhood councils. Members of the Mayor’s Youth Council have also participated.

Under Civic U© 1.0 for Neighborhood Councils, participants learn how to influence the political system. Under Civic U© 2.0 for Neighborhood Councils, participants also create viable advocacy proposals and make policy presentations to decision makers.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Learn how to develop a viable advocacy proposal.
  2. Be able to determine the fiscal implications of an advocacy proposal.
  3. Learn how to create political momentum for a viable advocacy proposal.

“Being involved in Civic U© 2.0 at such a young age and meeting government officials has inspired me to remain active and learn more about what I can do for my community.” Civic U© Particicpant