Summer of Civics Starts Now: 10 Ways to Engage Your Community This Summer

As the school year ends and we enter June, summer is already well on its way for many of us. The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy is excited to share ideas that extend beyond the usual summer activities and enhance our season with meaningful civic engagement. Whether you're attending local events or exploring online resources, there are countless ways to connect with your community and contribute to our democracy.

Civic engagement is about intentional actions that contribute to the well-being of your community. Whether you check off a few items or complete the entire list, each step you take strengthens the fabric of our democracy.

Rows of American flags stand close together outdoors, illuminated by sunlight, with trees and green grass in the background—a striking tribute during the Summer of Civics.

10 ways to engage:

  1. Visit a History Museum or Civic Landmark
  2. Organize a Block Party or Neighborhood Potluck
  3. Volunteer at a Local Event
  4. Support a Local Business or Artist
  5. Start a Book Club
  6. Participate in a Public Forum or Town Hall
  7. Write a Letter to the Editor
  8. Register to Vote—or Help Someone Else Do It
  9. Attend a City Council or School Board Meeting
  10. Explore Civics for Life Resources

Visit a History Museum or Civic Landmark This Summer

Rediscover your town's heritage by visiting local museums or historical sites. Understanding the past enhances your appreciation of the present and informs your civic perspective.

Organize a Block Party or Neighborhood Potluck

Foster community spirit by bringing neighbors together for a casual gathering. Strong neighborhood connections are the foundation of a supportive and engaged community.

Four adults observe black and white photographs displayed on a green wall in an art gallery. Two people are in focus in the foreground, while two others appreciate the Summer of civics themed photos in the background.
A wooden table set for an outdoor picnic with sandwiches, pasta salad, pastries, fruit, juice, snacks, and flowers captures the spirit of a Summer of Civics. Colorful dishes and straws add a festive touch to the bright, inviting spread.
During a Summer of Civics event, a person wearing gloves picks up a plastic bottle from the ground, while others gather trash in bags in the background during an outdoor cleanup.
A man and a woman smile while shopping for fresh vegetables at an outdoor market during the Summer of Civics, selecting produce from a colorful, abundant display.

Volunteer at a Local Event

Summer is filled with community events like farmers' markets and neighborhood cleanups. Volunteering your time helps strengthen community bonds and supports local initiatives.

Support a Local Business or Artist

Invest in your community's economy by shopping at local businesses or attending performances by local artists. Your support fosters a vibrant and resilient local culture.

Start a Book Club

If you enjoy reading, books offer a fantastic way to learn about the history and evolution of our country. Gather your friends and explore the numerous books that illustrate how America developed into what it is today. We have a few suggestions and discussions with authors to get you started!

Participate in a Public Forum or Town Hall

Attend forums or town halls to participate in discussions on local issues. These platforms offer opportunities to voice your opinions and learn from community members.

A person in a yellow outfit lies on a beach towel by the sea at sunset, holding an open book above their face—a perfect summer of civics moment. A straw hat rests on their chest as the softly lit sky sets the scene.
A conference room with rows of empty chairs faces a long table adorned with documents and flowers, ready for the Summer of Civics gathering, beneath a peach-colored wall with framed pictures and bathed in natural light from large windows.
The U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., is shown at sunrise with a clear sky and sunlight shining behind the dome, highlighting the historic architecture and surrounding grounds—an inspiring scene for a Summer of Civics.

Write a Letter to the Editor

Express your views on community matters by writing to your local newspaper. Sharing your perspective can influence public discourse and encourage others to engage.

Register to Vote—or Help Someone Else Do It

Make sure you're registered to vote at your current address. Are you already registered? Help a friend or neighbor with the process. It's a simple yet powerful way to support democratic participation.

Attend a City Council or School Board Meeting

Attend a public meeting to engage directly with local governance. It's an excellent way to stay informed about the decisions affecting your community. Bring a friend to increase your impact!

Explore Civics for Life Resources

Enhance your civic knowledge with resources from our Civics for Life initiative. This website offers free, self-paced micro-lessons and informative articles, making it accessible for learners of all ages.

A person writes in a notebook with a pen on a desk, contemplating whether to donate. Nearby, a laptop, smartphone, cup, and eyeglasses rest under soft lighting, creating a warm and focused atmosphere.

Here's to a summer filled with connection, learning, and civic pride! Share how you check them off with us on our social platforms and use #SummerofCivics.