Program Impact
The Mansfield Center reaches over 10,000 students, teachers, and community members annually through civic education and engagement programs. We bring experiences to Montana’s students, emphasizing rural schools, sparsely populated areas, indigenous communities, and other often overlooked places in national conversations. Our programs ensure these communities have access to civic participation opportunities.
Addressing civic deserts—areas with a significant lack of civic and political engagement opportunities—is crucial. Research indicates that about 60% of rural youth live in civic deserts, compared to 30% of their suburban and urban peers. These challenges are particularly pronounced in Montana, where among our 400 school districts, 50 one-room schoolhouses still exist, and our population is a scant seven people per square mile. By bringing our programs to these underserved areas, we combat political alienation and skepticism about government, fostering a more inclusive and engaged society.
Our programs are vital to the success of our democracy and national security. They reinforce the importance of democratic institutions, media literacy, ethical leadership, and civic engagement. Key program areas include:
- Developing curricula and classroom activities for K-12 and university audiences, including Montana’s approximately 145,000 public school students, 300 government and social studies teachers, 8,500 homeschoolers, and 26 higher education institutions
- Collaborating with businesses, government entities, and nonprofit organizations to provide civics-related experiences such as:
- Partnering with business organizations, including local Chambers of Commerce, to co-sponsor programming highlighting the role of civic responsibility
- Working with government entities to provide students with firsthand experiences in legislative processes and public administration
- Teaming up with nonprofit organizations to engage students in community service projects that address local issues
- Engaging with tribal nations to integrate their unique cultural heritage into all programming, with an emphasis on providing opportunities for learners in Montana’s 41 school districts on or near reservations
- Offering seminars, workshops, and training throughout the state for civic engagement skills
- Providing student internships in Montana and Washington, DC related to democracy and public service
- Supporting student and faculty research on civics through grants and scholarships
- Bringing together thousands of citizens of all ages with opportunities to hear from speakers on contemporary issues and engaging in civil discourse through a dialogue series and community listening sessions.
Our team uses proven practices to support civil society education and outreach, maintaining strong relationships with nationwide partners. For three consecutive years, Washington Monthly ranked the 91视频 first in the nation for the highest concentration of community and national service, recognizing our development of engaged leaders.
The Mansfield Center's comprehensive approach to civic education and engagement is essential for fostering a more inclusive and engaged society. By addressing the unique challenges faced by rural and underrepresented communities, we are building a stronger foundation for American democracy and national security. Our commitment to collaboration, education, and outreach ensures that all citizens can participate in and contribute to civic life.