Photos from 2011 Citizens Academy
City of Eden Citizens Academy
Have you ever wondered how things work in your city government? Have you ever wondered where your tax dollars go? Do you think you have what it takes to make a difference in our city but you don't know how? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the City of Eden Citizens Academy is for you.
Beginning on September 1, 2011 the City of Eden will host a Citizens Academy Program. The purpose of the program is to improve understanding, communication, and cooperation between local government and those it serves. The sessions are designed to help citizens learn about the City of Eden and the services it provides. Through lectures, hands-on activities, and interaction, participants will gain insight into how the City operates on a day to day basis, as well as how it plans for the future. Participants will learn how city government affects the quality of life in Eden.
Citizens will be interested in attending for many reasons including an expectation to become better acquainted with the town and its programs and services, learning about the policies and procedures of town government, meeting new people, or finding ways to volunteer in the community. Participants may be representatives from a cross-section of citizens – new and life-long residents, professionals, homemakers, business owners, retirees, civic group leaders, and high school students – all of whom share an interest in becoming better informed about how a City operates.
Interested participants should submit an application and will be selected on a first-come, first served basis. Participants must be at least 18 years old and class size will be limited to 20 participants. When class capacity has been met, the excess applications are carried over to the next academy. Applications request the standard information, such as a name, address, phone number, email address, and employer name and address, but they also ask for the applicant's birthplace, length of time living in Eden and Rockingham County, interests and accomplishments, and expectations from the program.
There is no cost to individuals who attend the sessions, but the city strongly encourages participants to commit the time to attend each program. The sessions begin on September 1 and will be held each Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. for 10 weeks at various city locations. Site visits will include trips to the public works, police and fire departments, parks and recreational areas. Since many participants will arrive directly from work without eating, a light meal will also be provided each week.
The program is truly a look behind the scenes of local government, pointing out its role and limitations, as well as a glimpse into the long term planning that makes Eden what it is today. Applicants must apply by August 22 in order to be considered for the 2011 session.
