CONTACT

TRULY-LOCAL

29 PARADISE LANE

815-326-9061

John@Truly-Local.org

815-326-9061

info@truly-localllc.com

Communities around the country face numerous challenges, from lack of vibrancy, economic stagnation, and an outflow of young talent.  However, a powerful tool for positive change often lies within the community itself: civic clubs and organizations. By harnessing the collective power of these groups, communities can undergo remarkable transformations, becoming more vibrant, connected, and resilient.

Civic clubs and organizations come in many forms, including service clubs (e.g., Rotary, Lions), youth organizations (e.g., Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts), community foundations, and local chapters of national nonprofits. These groups share a common purpose: to improve their communities through volunteer work, fundraising, and advocacy.  There are approximately 1.5 million nonprofit organizations registered in the United States alone. This vast network of civic-minded groups represents an enormous potential for community transformation.

There are many key benefits of civic engagement.  Civic organizations build social capital by fostering connections between community members. A study by Harvard Kennedy School found that communities with higher levels of social capital tend to have lower crime rates, better public health outcomes, and higher economic mobility.  The Corporation for National and Community Service reports that about 63 million Americans volunteer annually, contributing roughly 8 billion hours of service. This volunteer workforce is equivalent to 5 million full-time employees, valued at approximately $200 billion.  Civic groups often have deep roots in their communities, providing invaluable local knowledge and insights that can inform effective solutions to community challenges.

Communities can maximize impact by fostering collaboration between different civic organizations. For example, the city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, created the Kalamazoo Promise, a partnership between local philanthropists, businesses, and civic groups that provides free college tuition to all public-school graduates. This initiative has led to increased high school graduation rates, higher college enrollment, and economic revitalization in the city.

Engaging young people in civic activities can have long-lasting benefits. A longitudinal study by Tufts University found that youth who participate in civic activities are 41% more likely to graduate from college and have incomes 35% higher than their non-engaged peers.  Communities can also support youth-focused organizations like 4-H or create youth advisory councils to involve young people in local decision-making processes.

Digital platforms can amplify the reach and impact of civic organizations. The neighborhood app Truly-Local and others have been used by local groups to help local communities shop local, promote events, share resources, and increase civic participation. A study by the Knight Foundation found that communities using such platforms reported a 17% increase in neighborly trust and engagement.

Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, communities can work with civic organizations to address root causes of local issues. In Brownsville, Texas, a coalition of civic groups launched the Challenge Brownsville initiative, focusing on improving education, health, and economic opportunities. Within five years, the city saw a 12% reduction in poverty rates and a 15% increase in high school graduation rates.

Regularly measuring and communicating the impact of civic initiatives can maintain momentum and attract more participants. The Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Michigan, publishes an annual "Vital Signs" report that tracks key community indicators, helping to guide local civic efforts and demonstrate progress.

Transforming a community into a more vibrant, resilient place requires sustained effort and collaboration. By leveraging the power of civic clubs and organizations, communities can tap into a wealth of local knowledge, volunteer energy, and social capital.  The data shows that communities with high levels of civic engagement tend to have better outcomes across various quality of life indicators. From improving educational attainment to reducing crime rates and boosting economic vitality, the benefits of a strong civic sector are clear.

As communities face increasingly complex challenges, the role of civic organizations becomes even more critical. By fostering collaboration, focusing on youth engagement, leveraging technology, addressing root causes, promoting inclusivity, and measuring impact, communities can unlock their full potential. Ultimately, the transformation of a community is not something that happens to it, but rather something that happens because of it. When find ways to work together, it is amazing at what kind of great things can come out of that. 

John Newby is a nationally recognized Columnist, Speaker, & Publisher. He consults with Chambers, Communities, Business & Media. His “Building Main Street, not Wall Street,” column appears in 60+ newspapers and media outlets. As founder of Truly-Local, he assists chambers, communities, media, and businesses in creating synergies that build vibrant communities. He can be reached at: John@Truly-Local.org.