Civic engagement generally refers to activities aimed at the betterment of society that are initiated and directed by community members rather than governments, institutions or large organizations. While some people have strong connections to their community and decision-makers, many others experience barriers to civic participation. To promote equitable civic engagement, we must look at ways to ensure that all residents have the skills, confidence and opportunity to participate in civic life, at the level they desire.
This resource explores civic engagement and how it relates to the development of Healthy Communities. It also offers ideas for promoting engagement within the civic realm by looking at vehicles for collective action and examples from a number of Ontario communities.
Photo: Community members contemplate actions to promote healthy built environments (Ontario Healthy Communities Coalition, Toronto, October 2015)
Authors: Lorna McCue and Tanya Stuart
Published By: HC Link
Publication Date: October 2016
View Civic Engagement: An Essential Ingredient for Healthy Communities
