Civic Engagement

Civic engagement holds the key to creating systems change that is driven by communities. It empowers individuals and communities to make their voices heard, gain a role in policy decisions and affect institutions that influence their futures and those of their families.

THE WAY FORWARD
Our approach to civic engagement is focused on building and increasing the capacity of underrepresented communities to affect lasting change. In civic deserts such as South, East and Southeast LA, as well as the San Fernando, San Gabriel and Antelope Valleys, problems of underinvestment and a lack of civic participation compound the challenges faced in addressing severe inequities and systemic problems.

Lasting positive change in these communities requires investment in organizing, leadership development, coalition building and public policy research. Over the years, we have invested in initiatives and projects that nurture and empower communities, from convening to community organizing to building collaboration among community members, nonprofits and institutions.

INITIATIVES:
Proposition 15 “Schools and Communities First”  would of generated over $3.75 billion in much needed new revenues for Los Angeles County K-12 public schools, community colleges and local governments by closing tax loopholes for the state’s largest commercial properties.

Proposition 16 addresses gender discrimination and systemic racism by restoring affirmative action in state hiring, contracting and education.

Measure H and Proposition HHH are two ballot measures passed in 2017 and 2016 that fund key aspects of LA County’s plan to end homelessness.

COLLABORATIONS:
California Calls
Local Leaders Academy
Million Voters Project
Southeast LA (SELA)

Our Policy & Civic Engagement focuses on:

• Investing in training and building the capacity of nonprofits to deepen civic engagement within the communities they serve.
• Partnering, leading and supporting collaborations and convenings in civic deserts, bringing community, policymakers and key stakeholders together to address complex problems, assess opportunities and develop and implement systems level remedies.
• Building a regional advocacy and community organizing effort in the Southeast cities to:
  • Strengthen their nonprofit sector
  • Support the development of a strong regional identity
  • Encourage multisector collaboration around critical issues
  • Generate greater public and private investment in the region

For more information, download our Community Empowerment and Voter Participation Resource Toolkit.

To join with CCF in helping Angelenos gain the power to transform their own communities, click the button below.

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