Extension > Community > Civic Engagement > Engaging citizens in decisions
Engaging citizens in decisions
Extension's model of civic engagement guides leaders to address public issues by collecting information from diverse sources and examining it from different perspectives. This way, decisions are ultimately supported with citizen buy-in, adequate resources and competent advice. To help leaders succeed, Extension offers training in single workshops, as well as in the content of long-term cohorts to help groups plan for successful community engagement.
On this page
Civic engagement at a glance
ResourceFull™ Decisions and Collective Action on Public Issues
Engaging with the public: Tip sheets
See all tip sheets.
-
Why should decision-makers involve others?
Engaging the public has multiple benefits
-
How do we engage the public successfully?
Align the public participation strategy with the goal
-
What type of facilitator will help most?
Consider when to use an internal or external facilitator
-
How do we plan for an effective meeting?
Create an agenda with purpose
-
How can we support more productive discussions?
Set ground rules
-
What's the best decision-making method?
Decide who decides — and how
-
How can we benefit from consensus decision-making?
Involve others and increase commitment
Success stories and case studies
Read real stories about making civic connections and how Extension can help.
-
Bridging Brown County case study (PDF)
Extension-sponsored programming helps Brown County communities, leaders and residents connect and "bridge" divides
-
Connecting conservation funding and landowners
Topics and offerings
Contact an educator
Contact an Extension educator to get more information about consultation and training in civic engagement for your community.
