Retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Conner once said, “Less than half of Americans today can name all three branches of government, yet three in four can name all of the Three Stooges.” Whether you think that’s funny or not, the reason stems from the average American simply being too detached from the whos, hows and whys of government today. Communities are stronger when people are actively involved and are willing to share their input, expertise and time. From grade school kids to retirees, counties offer countless opportunities for everyone to contribute.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
ACCG created the nonprofit Civic Affairs Foundation in 2006 to promote the interaction of Georgia’s citizens with their local communities. The Foundation creates programs and initiatives that educate citizens, encourage them to engage with and improve their communities, and promote participation in government. The student programs and volunteering initiatives explained below are just two of the ways the Foundation encourages our next generation of community leaders. Read more at CivicAffairs.org
STUDENT PROGRAMS
Connecting young people with county government helps build their understanding and appreciation for its functions and services – and, ideally, leads to a lifetime of long-term citizen involvement and public service. The ACCG Civic Affairs Foundation was created, in part, to provide high school and college students with opportunities to learn about the work of county government through practical, real-life experiences. Through grant competitions, internships, and fellowships, young people contribute to projects and learn valuable long-term lessons in problem-solving and a chance to work in professional environments – while providing direct benefits to the broader society.
CITIZEN VOLUNTEERING
County government is more effective when citizens understand its role and functions. It’s actually one of the reasons we created this web site. Getting more involved in their communities is one way for citizens of all ages to connect to their government and learn how their contributions create a healthy and civil society. As people become more aware of all the services their county provides, it’s easier for them to see more ways they can volunteer. Many counties in Georgia depend on trained volunteers for fire/rescue while others offer organized volunteer programs that range from helping maintain parks to aiding the elderly. Contact your county for ways you can get involved.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
Being a part of, or running, a county government is serious stuff. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a little fun learning about it! Here are some great ways to do just that. And check back, we’ll add more information to make you even more aware of your county!
YOUR COUNTY
Want to get some real-time information on the county you live in? Just type in the county name to find out its population, the names of the elected officials and more. Go ahead – learn away!
HISTORICAL MARKERS
Use this interactive site to search among the 2,100+ historical markers in Georgia, including the ones in your county. You’ll be amazed what you might not have known what was right there in your county. You can even create a customized map, and download an app to accompany you on your travels!
iCIVICS
Try your hand at some of these free online games; argue a legal case in front of a judge, manage a town and set taxes, even run for president! There are 6 awesome games just waiting for you.
Curriculum Materials
We want to help 8th Grade teachers help their students learn more about county-provided services, how they’re funded, why they’re vital, and which ones they depend on but may not even know about. Click HERE to see the growing list of county services we’ve created ready-to-use tools for you to use!
Exploring Local Government Performance Task
Choice board to demonstrate your understanding of the role and function of Georgia’s local governments. Download the Exploring Local Government Performance Task document to get started.