Civics organizations
A list of state, local, and national organizations aiming to improve civic education.
Find ways to engage in and promote civic education
- 4H Know Your Government
Know Your Government is a four-year rotating government-related program that brings students from across the state to share ideas and potential solutions to problems, learn about Washington State government, and become positive contributing citizens.
- AmeriCorps - Washington
AmeriCorps aims to strengthen communities and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering. They provide service opportunities for citizens to help in communities all over the country.
- Association of Youth Courts
Washington Association of Youth Courts (WSAYC) provides support and leadership development for Washington youth courts. WSAYC intends to expand the youth court system and support local education and intervention services.
- Civic Leadership Program
The Washington State Trio Association is a nonprofit that supports the success of low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students in Washington and educates them on how to impact their community and strengthen their leadership skills.
- Evergreen Boys State
American Legion Boys State is a week-long immersive program that helps high school juniors gain a practical understanding of how government works. It prepares them to be informed and active citizens who can shape the future of our government.
- Evergreen Girls State
American Legion Girls State is a week-long immersive program that helps high school juniors gain a practical understanding of how government works. It prepares them to be informed and active citizens who can shape the future of our government.
- History Day
OSPI administers the National History Day program in partnership with the Washington State Historical Society and other organizations. This program enhances student reading, writing, research, communication, critical thinking, and creativity.
- iCivics
iCivics is an organization dedicated to advancing civic learning by providing educators and students with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to embrace and engage civically.
- Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC)
LYAC is a nonpartisan group of students who advise the Legislature on youth priorities. They advocate for policies, testify on legislation, and work with government agencies to ensure youth voices are heard.
- National Civics Bee
The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities with a chance to win recognition and prizes.
- Project Citizen
Project Citizen is a hands-on approach for students to learn about government and how to civically engage in their community.
- Tours of the State Capitol
The Washington State Department of Enterprise Services offers several options for civic education tours.
- Washington State Archives
The Washington State Archives allows people to discover millions of historical state documents by typing in names, using keywords, conducting a detailed search, and sorting by collection type.
- Washington State Council for the Social Studies (WSCSS)
WSCSS aims to provide Washington's social studies educators with high quality professional development, and advocate for the advancement and funding of social studies in Washington.
- Washington State Leadership Board (WSLB)
WSLB is a Washington trustee agency focused on providing equitable leadership development programs. Its goal is to inspire leaders to make a difference in their communities through personal growth and service.
- We the People
We the People promotes understanding of our constitutional democracy, its institutions, and core principles.The curriculum centers on civic values and key concepts essential to understanding and practicing democratic citizenship in the United States.
- YMCA Youth and Government
YMCA Youth and Government helps teens become leaders in their communities. They sit on boards, volunteer in schools, educate others on local issues, and learn the importance of using their voice to share their opinions and ideas.