Resources

Engage Locally: Your Guide to Civic Participation

“Democracy thrives when its citizens are informed and involved.”

At Liberty Shore, we believe that active civic engagement is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Whether you’re new to local governance or seeking deeper involvement, this guide offers practical steps to help you make a meaningful impact in your community.

Discover Your Local Government

Understanding your local government’s structure is the first step toward effective engagement.

• Find Your Local Government Website
• Identify Key Officials and their responsibilities
• Stay Informed through email newsletters and public notices

Attend Public Meetings

City council, school board, and planning commission meetings are open forums where decisions affecting your community are made.

• Check meeting schedules and agendas on your local website
• Participate virtually or in-person
• Use public comment periods to share your voice

Join Boards and Commissions

Help shape policies by joining local committees and advisory groups.

• Search your city’s official site for “Boards and Commissions”
• Explore Youth Advisory Councils
• Apply online (many are volunteer-based)

Support Local Elections

• Register to vote
• Volunteer on local campaigns
• Consider running for local office

Educate Yourself and Others

• Attend local civic education workshops
• Explore National Civic League resources
• Get students involved through programs like YMCA Youth & Government

Leverage Online Platforms

• Use tools like “Engaged California” to weigh in on local issues
• Follow civic leaders and agencies on social media
• Participate in community discussion forums

Start Local Initiatives

• Organize town halls and listening sessions
• Use online petitions to rally support
• Form neighborhood groups to collaborate and organize

Emergency Hotlines & Legal Support

• National Immigration Detention Hotline: Dial 9233# from any ICE facility phone (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm PT)
• National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC): Call 312-660-1370 (Tues–Thurs, 8:30am–4:30pm CT)
• LUCE ICE Watch Hotline (MA): Call 1-855-435-7693 (24-hour, multilingual support)
• NIJC – Know Your Rights
• NILC – Know Your Rights

Additional Civic Resources

Local Civic Engagement Opportunities

• VolunteerMatch
• AmeriCorps

Civic Education and Participation

• League of Women Voters
• iCivics

Community Deliberation Platforms

• National Issues Forums
• Everyday Democracy

Youth Engagement Initiatives

• DoSomething.org
• Youth250

Remember: Your voice matters. By taking these steps, you contribute to a more responsive and inclusive local government.

If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].