Since our founding as a multi-partisan and non-profit organization in 2005, The Davenport Institute (formerly Common Sense California) has worked to engage citizens in the policy decisions that affect our everyday lives. It is our firm belief that policy begins with people. In today's world of easy access to information and connectivity to others, municipal and education leaders are seeking ways to involve the residents of their communities in the important issues they confront. Done legitimately, this new kind of leadership produces effective policy solutions and more engaged citizens committed to the hard work of self-governance.