Civic Stage
NextGen:Pgh Civic Stage is a pop-up, youth-led, ‘civic incubator’ that provides students with a new leadership framework and programmatic platform to transform their communities. We prepare students for constructive civic engagement leading up to their first vote and beyond, because we believe youth possess untapped potential to heal our divides and confront our shared challenges. America can’t afford to lose another generation to civic apathy and ignorance.
The need for NextGen: Pgh Civic Stage is clear. A recent national study, conducted by the Annenburg Public Policy Center- the results of which are supported up by a 1 preponderance of other research - demonstrates that current models of civic education and engagement are inadequate. According to the study, 61% of adult Americans cannot name the three branches of government and more than 1/3 can’t name a single right guaranteed under the first amendment. If we don’t address this deficiency, the very future of our constitutional republic is at stake.
Our innovative educational platform has evolved from a multi-year effort, in partnership with The Heinz Endowments, PNC, American Eagle Outfitters, and many others, to engage youth in new programmatic models of civics education and social entrepreneurship, with a focus on 21st century professional preparedness. Our vision is to create a national network of youth-led, pop-up, civics education and social entrepreneurship platforms that engage, educate, and entertain. Our goal is to empower students to create an informed and active citizenry, prepared to tackle communal challenges and grow their neighborhoods.