Civic Engagement in Champaign County - Keeping It Local

Encouraging civic engagement is central to the mission of the League of Women Voters. Yet, the current political climate may leave some feeling helpless and perhaps unmotivated to get involved. At this month's Keeping it Local we will discuss how the average citizen can be civically engaged and what opportunities exist on a local level. A panel of mayors and local volunteers will lead us in this discussion: Champaign Mayor Deb Feinen and Urbana Mayor Diane Marlin will describe volunteer opportunities for citizens on city boards and commissions. Election judges Kristine Chalifoux and Holly Rosencranz will share what they have learned in working with members of opposing political parties and the interesting challenges that voters can present. LWVCC Student Ambassador Diza Baryshnikov will describe why she became a first-time election judge. Ann Prisland will share the value of serving as a citizen-observer in the election process. Panel moderator Trisha Crowley says, “The opportunities to make an impact locally are vast – from helping to set policy for local libraries to making decisions about zoning, to reviewing police practices, to helping make sure all registered voters can vote. There are boards and commissions throughout Champaign County that need people to step up. Active participation in our government as a citizen is what makes democracy work.” For more information on LWVCC: https://lwvchampaigncounty.org