Resources for Action
"A socially cohesive and economically vibrant US democracy…require[s] informed, engaged, open-minded, and socially responsible people committed to the common good and practiced in ‘doing’ democracy…."
Excerpt from A Crucible Moment: College Learning and Democracy’s Future
The Bonner Center for Civic Engagement understands civic engagement to be a lifelong practice that spans numerous ways of ‘doing democracy,’ including the modes for action described below. We will continue to develop these important resources for taking action, as a way to support students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of our greater community in engaging meaningfully towards the common good. We welcome suggestions for resources to add.
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Community-Based Learning and Research
Community-Based Learning refers to a broad spectrum of curricular activity that connects students to communities for the purpose of deepening learning.
Community-Engaged Research engages faculty expertise with the expertise of community stakeholders in order to co-create new knowledge that serves a public good extending beyond the academic purpose of the work.
- Community-based learning classes at UR might include collaborative projects with a community partner, guest speakers, and more. Learn about the different modes of community-based learning.
- Many UR faculty and students have published about their community-engaged research. Explore recent publications.
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Community Organizing and Activism
Community Organizing and Activism is involving, educating, and mobilizing individual or collective action to influence or persuade others.
The First Amendment protects your right to assemble and express your views through protest, but it’s important that you are informed and prepared before you protest.
The following sites may be helpful as you plan:
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Direct Service
Direct Service is working to address the immediate needs of individuals or a community, often involving contact with the people or places being served.
- Begin by exploring organizations in the issue areas that you care the most about.
- HandsOn Greater Richmond regularly posts regional volunteer opportunities.
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Philanthropy
Philanthropy is donating or using private funds or charitable contributions from individuals or institutions to contribute to the public good.
- At UR, many clubs, fraternities, and sororities are engaged in philanthropic initiatives.
- Relevant classes are taught by faculty of the UR Insitute on Philanthropy.
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Political Engagement
Political Engagement is participating in political processes and policymaking.
- Students are dual residents and can register to vote in their hometown or on their college campus. You can Register to vote here.
- Find your elected officials.
- Our Politics & Voting page includes more information about voter registration, upcoming elections, and more.
- UR students share up-to-date information about local and state government at URGOV.
- The Virginia General Assembly convenes every January. Visit our Advocacy Days web page to learn how you can get involved in state-level advocacy.
- Social Entrepreneurship and Corporate Social Responsibility
Social Entrepreneurship and Corporate Social Responsibility is using ethical business or private sector approaches to create or expand market-oriented responses to social or environmental problems.