The Citizens Academy is an interactive educational program that informs citizens about how local governments are organized, and how services are funded and delivered. It is a place to learn about citizen involvement through an integrated approach to economic vitality, social equity, and a healthy environment.
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Citizens Academy facilitates a dialogue between government leaders and the community.
Participants join a strong network of over 600 engaged citizens. Citizens Academy has been a conduit of change and learning in Central New York for 18 years. If you are interested in building a better community, consider applying to this highly acclaimed and enriching experience. Take the first steps to be informed about your community.
For more information on Citizens Academy, read below.
Citizens Academy is a collaboration between the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, and FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. to inform citizens about how local governments are organized and how services are funded and delivered. The program provides the opportunity to meet with key government officials and engage in a dialogue by asking pertinent questions about your community and learn from the experts, as well as meet other engaged citizens.
This highly acclaimed program is a unique opportunity to learn about citizen involvement through an integrated approach to economic vitality, social equity, and a healthy environment. Each session allows class members to meet a panel of officials who work on these topics daily. Participants hear first-hand about the challenges and opportunities for the future. Each session allows class members participate in an open question and answer session with the panel.
Citizens Academy Fall 2023
Sessions Include
Local History~ Community Vitality ~ Environmental Stewardship ~ Education ~ Law Enforcement ~ Sustainable Planning~ Economic Vitality ~ Local Government Budget and Finance ~ Emergency Management ~ Etc.
2023 Schedule, Locations, & Requirements
September 13 – November 15, 2023
The 2023 Fall sessions will run for ten weeks on Wednesday evenings from September 13, 2023 – November 15, 2023. Classes are held from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. A light boxed meal is provided for each class.
Tentative Dates:
• September 13, 20, 27
• October 4, 11, 18, 25
• November 1, 8, 15
Locations & Tours:
• Classes are held at various government and community facilities.
• Several sessions include optional tours of the facilities. Tours begin at 4:15 p.m.
• Class and Tour locations often include: Lakeview Amphitheater, Justice Center, Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Syracuse City Hall.
Requirements:
• The Citizens Academy is open to all who live or work in Onondaga County and are 18 years of age and older. Class size is limited.
• Fee is $100. Due in full or in two payments: September 1 and October 1. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available.
Patterns of Government
Patterns of Government in Onondaga County – 2021 edition – This book is used for the Citizens Academy course, and it is available free online.
This informational book contains vital information that ordinarily can be found only when one researches multiple sources.
This informational book will help you understand how local governments are organized, the services they provide, and sources of funding. You will become aware of how tax dollars are used, the function and interaction of programs, and “who to call” for service and information. If the material in this book motivates civic trusteeship and mutual responsibility with governments, it has achieved its purpose.
“Being part of Citizens Academy was a great experience. Everyone learns so much, and it deepens understanding of news about important issues in our community.”
~ Stan Linhorst, Former Senior Managing editor Syracuse.com & The Post-Standard
Meet the People Who Work In Your Community, For Your Community
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Interested In Sponsoring Citizens Academy?
Corporate sponsors are vital to allowing FOCUS to continue its important mission.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Program Manager, Alicia Ernest at (315) 448-8732 or aernest@syrgov.net
Education Sponsor:
