Participate in Live Like a Citizen

Strengthen civic culture in the place you call home

We hear it every day: for people leading in civic life in any way, it can feel exhausting out there. But beneath the fatigue, and even the fear, there’s often a quieter tug of responsibility: a real desire to contribute, to reconnect, to build trust again, and to work earnestly and joyfully toward the common good. To be a part of what is working in our communities and our country.

The moment for civic renewal is right now.

Live Like a Citizen is a 2.5-day experience designed for civic catalysts like you—people whose work and relationships ripple outward into community life. This program is a space to take a deep breath, pick up new tools that you can actually put into practice, and do so alongside people who share your commitment to the place you call home.

Citizen University helped me think differently about civic life—not as something that happens only through government, but through the relationships, trust, and sense of shared responsibility we build with one another.— Jackie in Eureka Springs, AR

What You’ll Experience

The training unfolds over 2.5 days in a retreat-style immersive led by Citizen University.

It is designed to be both deep and joyful. Reflective and practical. We are real about both the weight of this moment and the possibility within it.

Through an interactive arc of learning and practice, we’ll dive deep into:

How to own the idea of citizenship as a living practice, and why it (really!) matters
The texture of your community, shifting from national headlines to the spirit and needs of your specific place
The realities about why living like a citizen in day-to-day life can be hard, and how to keep at it with other people
Practical ways to invite others in as co-creators of healthy civic life

What You’ll Leave With

A deeper sense of your own civic identity and role
A stronger network of relationships with fellow civic-minded leaders in your community
Renewed belief in the possibility of constructive civic life
Practical tools for navigating division, distrust, and disengagement
Confidence in your ability to champion civic hope and opportunity
An invitation into Citizen University’s national alumni network of Civic Catalysts

What people get out of this

Perla — Community Organizer in Nebraska
Came looking for low-barrier ways to bring isolated and fearful neighbors together → Now, convening civic gatherings across the state that help people reconnect, build trust, and sustain one another through difficult experiences.

Deidra — Nonprofit Program Director in Louisiana
Came in search of accessible civic practices to build into youth programming → Today, organizing joyful civic education events that strengthen connection and collaboration across the age spectrum.

Matt — University Professor in Illinois
Joined seeking new ways to help students root into civic identity and community life → Has since been creating student-led initiatives that engage hundreds of local residents

Why It Matters Now

The challenges we face aren’t abstract or distant—they are alive in our neighborhoods, workplaces, congregations, and families. But we can only work at them (slowly! imperfectly!) if we show up. If you believe that stronger communities begin with more committed, capable people—and you need a place to grow your standing as a champion of civic renewal– join us.

I have been a part of so many different fellowships and leadership opportunities but I have never felt so seen, fortified, and appreciated for what I do in my community and how I lead. I truly feel supported to take on what is next for me and my work. – Shareefah in Dallas TX

Interested in Participating?

Live Like a Citizen is brought to communities through local partner organizations — libraries, universities, community foundations, nonprofits, and other civic institutions. Individuals participate as part of a locally convened cohort.

Want Live Like a Citizen to come to your community?

Share this with an organization in your area that might be a good host!
Fill out our interest form so we can keep track of where there is a concentration of local interest–and see about finding a partner in your neck of the woods.