It’s an exciting time at Civic Nebraska. On Aug. 1, we gave our founder Adam Morfeld a rousing and joyful sendoff as he steps into a new role. Then, on Aug. 2, we got right back to work as the search for our next leader began. We expect that process to take four to six months, and in the meantime, we’ve lined up behind Kyle Cartwright, our interim executive director, and our senior leadership team to keep our organization moving forward.
We’re also leaning into our core values of community, innovation, learning, power, and optimism at the official start of this interim period. Every organization has its values, of course; we’re not especially unique in that sense. What binds our organization together so tightly is that we constantly emphasize them with ourselves and others. And in the next few months, we expect our values to serve as powerful guideposts in advancing our work and in preparing for our next chapter. Here they are.
Community is built on trust and engagement.
At Civic Nebraska, we recognize that the foundation of a thriving democracy is a strong, interconnected community. Trust is the glue that binds individuals together, allowing for collective action and mutual support. We foster environments where people can engage in meaningful dialogue, share their experiences, and work toward common goals. By showing up for one another, we cultivate a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, which empowers individuals to take part in the civic process. Whether through town halls, community forums, or grassroots organizing, we believe that when people trust each other, they can tackle the most pressing issues facing their communities, leading to sustainable and inclusive growth.
Innovation leads to continuous improvement and greater impact.
Innovation is at the core of Civic Nebraska’s approach to civic engagement and education. We are not satisfied with the status quo; instead, we actively seek out new ideas, methods, and technologies that can drive progress and enhance our impact. Whether it’s pioneering new educational programs, leveraging digital tools for broader outreach, or reimagining traditional civic activities, we believe that embracing innovation allows us to better serve our communities. By fostering a culture of learning and adaptation, we ensure that our strategies remain relevant and effective, empowering more people to participate in democracy and contribute to the betterment of society.
Learning creates pathways to participation and progress.
Civic Nebraska is committed to the idea that education is the bedrock of a vibrant democracy. We view learning as a continuous process that opens doors to civic participation and social progress. Through our programs, we provide individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to engage in civic life, from understanding the intricacies of voting to advocating for policy changes. Learning, in our view, is not just about acquiring information; it’s about developing critical thinking, empathy, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of our communities. By empowering individuals with these tools, we create pathways for them to take active roles in shaping their futures and the future of our democracy.
Power is inherent in every person.
At Civic Nebraska, we believe that every individual possesses the potential to effect change. Our mission is to connect people to the power they already hold and to ensure that this power is shared equitably across all segments of society. We work to dismantle barriers that prevent people from accessing their full civic potential, whether those barriers are systemic, informational, or social. By providing resources, support, and opportunities for leadership, we help individuals recognize and exercise their power, fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy where anyone can be a catalyst for positive change.
Optimism is a driving force for change.
Civic Nebraska has faith in the present and future of American democracy. This is not just a mindset but a powerful tool for driving change. Our optimism is rooted in our confidence in people’s ability to come together, learn from each other, and build a better future. We are inspired by the resilience of our communities and motivated by the belief that our efforts make a tangible difference. This optimism propels us forward, encouraging us to innovate, engage, and persevere in our mission to strengthen democracy in Nebraska. We know that by working together, we can create a brighter, more just future for all.
Onward!
