Community Academy

Conducted by the Mayor’s Office and in collaboration with the City’s African American Ambassadors Education Reform Subgroup, Community Academy is a free, hands-on, and interactive public information program that provides residents insight into City services and municipal government.  Community Academy aims to build a stronger understanding of City services among residents, and therefore increase community engagement. The inaugural Community Academy took place in 2022.

The goal of Community Academy is to:
  • Familiarize residents with the processes and procedures associated with City services.
  • Facilitate and deepen a public understanding of how Providence’s City Government operates.
  • Promote a two-way dialogue between City staff and residents.
  • Enhance public participation by sharing opportunities for residents to become involved in City processes and initiatives.
  • Increase public awareness of the importance of local civic engagement.

About

Conducted by the Mayor’s Office and in collaboration with the City’s African American Ambassadors Education Reform Subgroup, Community Academy is a free, hands-on, and interactive public information program that provides residents insight into City services and municipal government.

Community Academy aims to build a stronger understanding of City services among residents, and therefore increase community engagement.

The Community Academy curriculum includes:
  • The role of municipal government
  • The functions of City departments
  • A review of different branches of government
  • An overview of the budgetary process

The 2022 session of Community Academy has now concluded. Stay tuned for updates on future sessions.

Course Schedule
Download and view the course schedule

Eligibility Requirements
  • Launched in 2022, Community Academy is a pilot program and therefore Community Academy classes are limited in size. Preference is given to those living or working within the City of Providence. Residents who are not selected for this course offering are encouraged to apply again for future sessions!
  • To apply for the Community Academy program, you must:
    • Be at least 16 years of age
      • Note that minors (under the age of 18) will be required to obtain a waiver from a parent or guardian.
    • Be able to attend a classroom-style session from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM once a week, for nine weeks.
    • Have an interest in learning more about your local government
    • Preference is given to residents of Providence, RI


Get Involved / Apply



The 2022 session of Community Academy has now concluded. Stay tuned for updates on future sessions.

Contact
If you would like more information on the program, please contact: LaJuan Allen, Director of Policy & Partnerships
Phone: 401-680-5743
Email: lallen@providenceri.gov