CivicsNJ, Organization Focused on Strengthening Democracy and Empowering Young People, Launches at Kickoff Event
NEWARK, NJ — CivicsNJ, a new, non-partisan coalition that describes itself as an organization “dedicated to advancing civic learning and engagement” launched earlier this month at a ceremony in Newark.
“The purpose of CivicsNJ is to share information, connect teachers and other service leaders to each other, and figure out together what else we need to do as a state to improve the teaching and practice of civics among young people," Nicholas Chiaravalloti, of the Maher Charitable Foundation, said.
The coalition's kickoff took place on March 11, during Civic Learning Week. The event featured various speakers and discussions with local and national leaders.
"Civic education is the foundation of a healthy democracy," Danielle Allen, a Harvard professor, who spoke at the event, said in a news release. "It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate effectively in civic life and to contribute to the common good."
In 2024, members from various community-based organizations in New Jersey met to discuss a new effort to support civics in New Jersey. The meeting, which was hosted by the Maher Charitable Foundation, formed CivicsNJ’s steering committee.
“All across New Jersey, teachers and community-based leaders are providing rich learning opportunities for young people to gain the knowledge, skills, and disposition they need to become active participants in their communities, the state, and beyond," Margarethe Laurenzi, executive director of Maher Charitable Foundation, said in a news release. “The new CivicsNJ coalition provides an ideal place for these practitioners to gather, share information, and enhance learning.”
Chiaravalloti, who served six years in the State Assembly, is a member of CivicsNJ's steering committee, which is made up of volunteers from education, higher education, nonprofits and philanthropy.
“The plan is for CivicsNJ to be a member-led organization that takes into account the needs and interests of its members throughout the civics ecosystem in NJ – from teachers and college faculty to after-school program leaders to organizations working with youth in communities,” he said. “We meet, set an action plan, connect with other states on coalition work they are leading, and share information.”
Over the next year, CivicsNJ will work on building its website, in addition to sharing resources and information, in addition to shaping policies.
Chiaravalloti said he's excited to be part of an organization that speaks to something very important to him.
“Public service - service to your community - is one of the greatest honors and responsibilities you can have,” Chiaravalloti added. “But being elected is only one way people can serve. Volunteering - whether it is with a food bank or as a tutor - is also public service.”
Interested in owning/operating TAPinto Passaic Valley? For more information, visit starttap.net or click here to set up a time with TAPinto Founder and CEO Michael Shapiro. You can also email mshapiro@tapinto.net.