Let's Learn Civics — Videos — Civic Impact Academy

Thank you for two AMAZING Civic Impact Academy cohorts.

2025 Civic Impact Academy Courses

Civic Impact Academy: Your Blueprint for Community Leadership

Dive into the core issues shaping our city and learn how to drive meaningful, lasting change. Taught by local experts and industry leaders, this comprehensive curriculum equips you with the knowledge, tools, and connections to advocate for equity, influence local policy, and become a highly effective community leader in Charlotte.

Discover the historical foundations and defining moments that have shaped Charlotte's neighborhoods, providing essential context for understanding today’s civic challenges.
Demystify the municipal budgeting process. Learn how local funds are allocated and discover effective ways to influence the financial decisions that directly impact your community.
Featuring Jennifer Moxley, Sunshine Media Group Master the art of public storytelling and media relations. Learn practical strategies to amplify your message, capture attention, and build powerful advocacy campaigns.
Featuring Christine Edwards Pitkin, Founder of Civility Localized Learn how to strategically identify, map, and collaborate with key community stakeholders to build momentum and drive successful local initiatives.
Featuring Erin Barbee, Dream Key Partners & Lashonda Hart, Mecklenburg County Explore actionable strategies and innovative policies for developing, preserving, and advocating for affordable housing in our growing city.
Featuring Maya Espinosa; Jennifer Watson Roberts, Former Mayor of Charlotte; and Meg Fencil, Sustain Charlotte Hear from a panel of environmental experts and local leaders on how to advocate for sustainable practices, climate resilience, and the protection of Charlotte's natural resources.
Featuring Men Tchaas Ari, President and CEO at Communities In Schools of Charlotte Mecklenburg (CIS) Examine the critical issues surrounding education equity and learn actionable ways to support systemic improvements and student success in our local schools.
Featuring Scierra Richardson, Vision Zero Community Coordinator & William Linville, Managing Designer at Charlotte Urban Design Center Navigate the intersection of urban design and transit safety. Learn how city planning impacts daily life and how to advocate for safer, more connected neighborhoods.
Featuring Dr. Kimberly Scott, Mecklenburg County Health Director Explore holistic public health strategies and community-based approaches designed to promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of our neighborhoods.

Videos

- Let's Learn Civics
• 10/10/26
Let's Learn Civics - Youth Voting Rights

Learn how 16- and 17-year-olds in North Carolina can pre-register to vote, automatically activating their registration when they turn 18 to boost youth civic participation.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 10/10/26
Let's Learn Civics - Understanding City vs County Government

Learn the key differences between city and county governments, from city-managed services like police and transit to county-run public health, schools, and elections.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - Redistricting & Gerrymandering

Learn what redistricting and gerrymandering mean, how voting maps are redrawn to account for population shifts, and how political boundary manipulation impacts representative democracy.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - What’s on the Ballot for NC 2026 Elections

Learn what a "down-ballot" race is, why local and state elections matter just as much as top-ticket races, and how completing your entire ballot increases your voting power.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - Is the draft returning

Beginning in December 2026, the U.S. draft registration process moves to an automated system, eliminating the need for manual self-registration.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - Data Centers

Strengthen and stabilize your core with this dynamic flow that blends mindful movement and breath. Ideal for building inner strength, balance, and body awareness without high intensity.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - State of NC Government

Learn the basics of North Carolina's state government, from the Governor and Executive Branch to lesser-known elected offices and their impact on your vote.
- Let's Learn Civics
• 8/29/25
Let's Learn Civics - Poll Workers

Power the polls and support democracy by signing up as a local poll worker or observer. Learn about the election process, serve your community, and help ensure transparent elections while receiving training and a stipend.