Applications are now available for the fall 2013 Civic Leadership Academy, a free 10-week course that aims to educate residents about local government.  Beginning September 18 and concluding on November 20, participants will attend 10 weekly sessions on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. to learn how different City departments work to ensure a safer, more livable City and to become more informed civic leaders.

Participants are given the opportunity to interact one-on-one with City departments, directors and staff members.  Session topics include urban redevelopment and processes, city planning and park services, protection of waterways and rivers, public safety efforts, animal control ventures and more.  Sessions also include tours, interactive presentations, hands-on demonstrations and engaging activities.  Throughout the 10-week course, the civic leaders plan a service project that they will complete after graduation to address the pressing challenges in and around the City of Pittsburgh.  Previous graduates have conducted river cleanups in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Water and Sewage authority, raised money for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, planted native plants at the Larimer Community Garden and revitalized a parklet in East Carnegie.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and live within Pittsburgh City limits and/or be a business owner who operates within Pittsburgh City limits. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday August 23rd.  Click here for more information and to apply.