Pepperdine’s Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership is pleased to invite applications for its ninth round of Public Engagement Grants. Started in 2008 (then conducted through Common Sense California), these grants have supported dozens of California cities, counties, special districts, and civic organizations seeking to engage residents on a variety of issues. This year’s grants will prioritize low-income and diverse communities that need a bit of extra support.
This year, the Institute will be awarding up to $50,000 in support of 1-3 grant projects. Prior to beginning their public engagement campaign, grantees will receive training and consultation from the Davenport Institute to build understanding and support for the civic engagement effort amongst administrative and elected officials.
The Davenport Institute will fund a professional consultant to work with grantees on facilitated public forums. Davenport senior staff and consultants will work with grantees to design the sessions and will facilitate deliberations amongst residents, stakeholders, and government representatives. Consultants will be chosen collaboratively between the Davenport Institute and the Grantee.
Grants are available to municipalities and civic organizations interested in involving the public on an issue of significance to their community or region. Past projects have related to budget, land use, and public safety among others. Eligible applicants include:
- Mayors, City Council, City Managers, Assistant City Managers
- County Supervisors, senior staff
- Special/School District board members, senior staff
- Executive Directors of Regional Governance Associations (COGs)
- Executive Directors of non-profit and community based organizations
Interested organizations can find more information on selection criteria and process, and apply online through http://publicpolicy.pepperdine.edu/davenport-institute/grants/.
All applications must be received by September 11, 2017, and grantees will be notified by October 1.