Citizens Academy
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Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy
The Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy is a 12-week program offered twice each year that aims to develop and nurture informed and engaged residents, students, and business owners in our great county. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Gwinnett County Government provides high-quality services to the community. Those who take part in this program will interact with leaders in their county government, visit county facilities to get a first-hand glimpse of how the county works, and build a network with others who live, work, and learn in Gwinnett County.
Program Goals
Throughout Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy, it is our intention that participants achieve the following goals:
- Knowledge: Increase participants' understanding of local government while learning more about community issues and concerns. Participants get a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at how services and programs are provided. They graduate with a better understanding of what is needed to run a county.
- Involvement: Improve the quality and quantity of citizen participation with an emphasis on underrepresented communities in local government. Participants learn how they can be more involved. Many Gwinnett 101 alumni go on to volunteer in the community, and/or serve on appointed advisory boards and committees.
- Engagement: Strengthen the lines of communication and relationship between residents, business owners, students, and their local government. Participants can connect with community leaders of all backgrounds. They create relationships with County officials that foster enhanced communication.
Eligibility
Residents interested in participating in Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy must meet the following criteria:
- Must be 18 years or older and be a resident in Gwinnett, and/or business owner in Gwinnett, or attend a Gwinnett college or university.
- Have an interest in learning about county government.
- Attend all sessions (maximum of two excused absences with make-up during the next session). Participants are required to attend Orientation and Graduation.
- Due to limited slots, we will only accommodate one applicant per household.
- Gwinnett County Government Employees wishing to apply to the program must receive written department approval.
Graduation Requirements
To get the optimal experience from the Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy, participants are expected to attend all sessions. Participants may only miss two sessions to be eligible for graduation. Orientation and Graduation attendance is required.
