Practical civic skills, taught by volunteers.
We meet once a month and work through these skills together, step by step. This isn't a quick fix. It's a long-term commitment to a community led by citizens who show up, take action, and care enough about Casa Grande and Pinal County to lead. Together, real change is possible: growth for our city, with no one left behind.
What we mean by "academy": C3 Civic Academy isn't a school or college program. It's an ongoing academy of learning from one another, where members gain real experience and a clearer understanding of how our local governments work. There are no degrees, certificates, or credentials, just practical knowledge you can use.
The core skills
- 1
Understanding the topics
Which public body decides budgets, development, services, and school policy, and who holds the authority.
- 2
Finding the meetings
Locate official calendars, notices, agendas, and viewing links for the city, schools, and county.
- 3
Reading the agenda
Study sessions, public hearings, consent agendas, motions, and votes, and what was actually decided.
- 4
Responding as a citizen
Request to speak, give clear public comment, submit written comments, and follow up on the outcome.
Offered as needed, free of charge.
- Printed materials: lessons on designing clear, professional business cards, flyers, and signs, and the local rules and permits that apply.
- Social media and video: advice and lessons on what to do and what to avoid, so you represent yourself well online.
- Digital communications: help setting up meeting and collaboration software like Zoom, plus training on using it effectively and professionally.
- Public-speaking engagements: practice and preparation, and how to judge when to accept an invitation and when to decline.
- Running an effective meeting: agendas, basic parliamentary procedure (Robert's Rules), and taking good minutes.
- Researching an issue: finding public records, budgets, and data, and checking your sources before you speak.
Workshops are educational only. The Council doesn't endorse candidates, run or fund campaigns, or create materials for anyone; members do their own work.
Members may also choose optional outside courses, such as the City of Casa Grande's free Leadership Academy (the city runs the program and its enrollment) and CAP University sessions on the Central Arizona Project and water issues.
Members earn C3 pins for learning and participation milestones, like attending three public meetings or giving a first public comment. Worn on a jacket, they're a visible record of involvement. Milestone details are in the Members area.