Read the following steps that outline how to complete your assignment.
This assignment is worth 20 points, and is to be uploaded to the course assignment box in D2L when complete. In your submission, you should just include the three questions and your answer to each question.
Step One: Read below about what the term “civic engagement” means.
Civic engagement means working to make a difference in one’s community and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through political and non-political processes. Civic participation encompasses a wide range of formal and informal activities.
Some examples: Voting; volunteering; participating in group activities; attending meetings to get educated on matters of local, town or school governance; rallying or protesting; and even community gardening. Some are individual activities that benefit society (e.g., voting) or group activities that benefit either the group members (e.g., recreational soccer teams) or society (e.g., volunteer organizations). In addition to the direct benefit that civic engagement provides to the community, it can also produce secondary health benefits for participants, such as contributing to a feeling of belonging or purpose and increasing knowledge of issues.
Question One: Based on your reading of the above, has your view of what constitutes the term “civic engagement” changed or expanded? Explain why, either yes or no, and use at least two specific examples.
Step Two: Check out “The Bucket List for Involved Citizens: 76 Things You Can Do To Boost Civic Engagement” using the following link - Bucket List. Read over the “bucket list” at this link. The list is organized under five headings: “Stay Informed,” “Vote,” “Participate,” “Help Others,” and “Get Social.”
Question Two: Describe any of your own civic engagement activities that you have engaged in up to this point. Be specific. It doesn’t have to be big. Or if you’ve done nothing on the “bucket list,” choose someone you know who has done civic engagement and describe, being specific, what they’ve done.
Question Three: Choose one item under each of the five headings on the “bucket list” that you have never done but might be interested in exploring further. List the heading and the activity under it. Also, explain the steps you would take to get involved or learn more about how to start engaging in that activity. For example, if you want to attend a local school board meeting, look online and find the URL for its website and when they typically meet. Also, what types of decisions do they make that affect our lives? Or, if you want to volunteer for an organization, find its URL and who coordinates volunteers, and what you have to do in order to become a volunteer. Be specific for each of the five activities you list, using examples and including URLs and names if that’s part of the necessary research to learn more about an activity and get participation in that activity off the ground.
Sources: https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/ref/college/collegespecial2/coll_aascu_defi.html, https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/social-determinants-health/interventions-resources/civic-participation
Thesis Statement:
Civic engagement plays a crucial role in shaping communities and fostering societal well-being through a variety of activities that promote active participation and social responsibility. This essay will explore the concept of civic engagement, reflect on personal experiences, and outline potential steps to further engage in civic activities based on a provided bucket list.
Question One: Reevaluation of Civic Engagement
Upon reviewing the definition of civic engagement provided, one's perspective on the term may indeed change or expand. The notion of civic engagement extends beyond mere political involvement to encompass a broad spectrum of activities aimed at improving communities. For instance, volunteering at local shelters or participating in neighborhood clean-up campaigns are actions that directly contribute to the betterment of society. These activities not only benefit communities but also foster a sense of belonging and purpose among individuals, illustrating the multifaceted nature of civic engagement.
Question Two: Personal Civic Engagement Activities
Reflecting on personal experiences with civic engagement can provide valuable insights into one's contributions to society. For instance, volunteering at a local food bank, participating in fundraising events for charitable organizations, or engaging in community service projects are all examples of individual efforts aimed at making a positive impact. By actively involving oneself in such initiatives, individuals can cultivate a sense of social responsibility and contribute to the welfare of their communities.
Question Three: Exploring New Civic Engagement Activities
1. "Stay Informed": Attending local town hall meetings for updates on community initiatives and policies. Steps to get involved would include researching the town's website for meeting schedules and agendas to stay informed about relevant issues.
2. "Vote": Participating in local elections to have a say in governance and decision-making processes. Researching candidates and their platforms online can help in making informed voting choices.
3. "Participate": Joining a community advocacy group to actively engage in discussions and initiatives that promote social causes. Finding local groups through social media platforms or community centers can facilitate participation.
4. "Help Others": Volunteering at a senior center to provide companionship and support to elderly community members. Contacting the center's volunteer coordinator or visiting their website can offer insights into volunteer opportunities.
5. "Get Social": Organizing a neighborhood watch program to enhance community safety and unity. Collaborating with local law enforcement or community leaders can help in establishing such a program effectively.
By exploring these diverse civic engagement opportunities and taking proactive steps to get involved, individuals can contribute meaningfully to their communities while fostering a sense of collective responsibility and empowerment.
In conclusion, civic engagement serves as a cornerstone for building resilient and vibrant communities by fostering active participation and social cohesion. Embracing various forms of civic involvement not only benefits society at large but also enriches individuals' sense of purpose and belonging within their communities. Through continued engagement and proactive participation in civic activities, individuals can contribute towards creating positive societal change and nurturing inclusive communities for the betterment of all.