City of Providence Launches “Community Academy” Civic Education Program

City accepting applications for pilot program that will familiarize residents with City services

PROVIDENCE, RI – Mayor Jorge Elorza and members of the African American Ambassadors Education Reform Subgroup today announced applications are now being accepted to participate in Providence Community Academy, a new civic education pilot program that will familiarize participants with City services and municipal government.

“Here in Providence, we are always looking for ways to make City services more accessible to our residents,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza. “The Community Academy will provide individuals with a better understanding of the City’s municipal services, while also encouraging resident involvement to effect positive change in the community. This program will help to make Providence a city that works for everyone and I thank members of the African American Ambassadors Education Subgroup for working with the City to launch this program.”

Providence Community Academy is a free, interactive nine-week pilot program designed for 30 residents beginning April 25, 2022. The goal of the Community Academy program is to deepen participants’ understanding of how Providence’s municipal government operates and to promote a two-way dialogue between City staff and residents. Sessions will focus on the role of municipal government, including a review of the different branches of government, the functions of City departments and an overview of the City’s budgetary process.

“Providence has many City services to offer residents, from parks and business licenses to marriage certificates and cultural events,” said Reverend Shane Lee. “Every resident participating in the Community Academy will learn how to best navigate and interact with Providence City departments to accomplish their goals, and they will be able to serve as ambassadors to help others in their community do the same.”

Online applications for the Providence Community Academy cohort are available now at https://providenceri.gov/communityacademy and are due March 18, 2022 at 4:30 PM. Individuals 16 years or older are eligible to apply. Preference will be given to those living or working within the City of Providence. Anyone under the age of 18 will be required to obtain a waiver from a parent or guardian. Applicants will be notified of acceptance into this spring’s cohort by April 4, 2022. COVID-19 safety protocols will be observed throughout any in-person sessions.

For additional information regarding Providence Community Academy, residents can call 3-1-1.