At Civic Nebraska, we strive for a democracy where all people understand their inherent power and exercise it. We believe in one that, as our city’s namesake once proclaimed, is of the people, by the people, and for the people. To that end, we introduce young people to the principles of civic engagement and civil discourse, cultivate connections that empower residents to address problems in their communities, and strive to ensure that all Nebraskans have reasonable and equitable access to the ballot.
On Give to Lincoln Day, by the people could also refer to our essential and ever-appreciated supporters. This year, we hope you will consider a donation that helps us reach our goal of $30,000, which will support both legacy and emerging programs that serve Lincolnites and Nebraskans of all ages and backgrounds.
›› There’s Capitol Experience Day, which has allowed over 7,000 high schoolers and numerous community groups to converse with state senators, participate in mock committee hearings, and engage in other activities that demystify state government.
›› Our New American Youth Leadership Academy, offered through partnerships with local high schools, helps Lincoln’s first-generation and refugee youth build community, confidence, and resilience.
›› The forthcoming Kid Governor® program will provide fifth-grade classrooms with the opportunity to create community-based platforms and participate in a statewide election that prepares our youth to vote and run for office as adults.
Your support, at any level you can afford and are comfortable with, also equips Lincoln residents, especially those in our city’s most underserved neighborhoods, with the resources and networks to advocate for improvements in their communities. In partnership with community leaders and other nonprofit organizations, this work ensures that all Lincolnites have the knowledge and basic rights, including access to affordable housing, that are foundational to a functioning democracy and necessary for active participation in it.
A functioning democracy means, above all, that each citizen can vote, knows how, when, and where to vote, and understands the power of the vote. A donation of any amount to Civic Nebraska is also a decision to support the defense of voting rights, including the right to vote early and by mail. It’s a decision to safeguard our ballot initiative process, which gives Lincolnites and all Nebraskans the right to propose and vote on policy. It’s a decision to promote voter registration and engagement, ensuring that all voices in Nebraska are heard and all perspectives are represented.
Whether you’re a longstanding supporter or just thinking about giving for the first time, know that we treat every donation as we do the principles of democracy: never to be taken for granted, always to be appreciated and recognized. And if you’re wondering exactly how your donation might be used:
›› $25 can allow a middle school class to send letters to their elected officials;
››$50 can ensure the training and oversight of nonpartisan election protection volunteers;
›› $100 can provide educational and promotional materials for voter registration efforts; or
›› $250 can support a fifth-grade classroom with the curriculum and materials to participate in Kid Governor®.
Thank you for considering a donation to Civic Nebraska this month. We will, as always, do our utmost to maximize the benefits of that donation and continue striving to be an organization that is worthy of it.
