In an age of growing public skepticism and disengagement, a Civic Academy program can be the bridge your community needs to better understand how local government works. This session will guide participants through the process of creating and launching a successful Civic Academy, from concept to execution. Learn how Palm Desert’s Civic Academy brought residents face-to-face with the people behind city operations, building transparency, trust, and fostering stronger relationships. Discover how spotlighting staff roles, demystifying city processes, and providing hands-on learning can increase community buy-in for your programs and projects. Whether your city is big or small, the Civic Academy model is adaptable and powerful in connecting residents and staff, creating a more informed and engaged public.