Gen Z Civic Lab (1-2 Week Program)
A hands-on summer workshop where students identify a local issue, research the policies behind it, and propose a solution.
Opportunity:
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Learn how policy actually works
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Work in teams to build a civic action plan
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Present ideas to peers, educators, or local orgs
Information
The Gen Z Civic Lab is a hands-on summer experience for high school students who want to understand the world around them and take real steps toward change.
Over the course of 1 to 2 weeks, participants will explore real issues like school funding, mental health access, and community equity. They will break these topics down, connect them to current policies, and work in teams to create local solutions.
This is not a lecture series. It is a space to ask questions, challenge systems, and leave with tools to make a difference. No prior experience with advocacy or policy is required. Students just need curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try.
What Makes This Different?
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Focuses on local issues with national relevance
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Combines clear policy education with creative teamwork
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Students lead the process from research to presentation
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Includes guest speakers, writing sessions, and group collaboration
Program Timeline (Tentative)
Week 1: Understanding the System
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Day 1: Welcome, team formation, and issue brainstorming
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Day 2: Civic crash course: how local and national policies actually work
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Day 3: Community mapping: identifying local issues that matter
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Day 4: Research tools and building your action question
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Day 5: Guest speaker and guided project planning
Week 2: Building and Presenting Solutions
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Day 6: Writing your proposal and defining your solution
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Day 7: Feedback rounds and refining the action plan
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Day 8: Finalizing presentations, adding visuals or digital elements
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Day 9: Rehearsals and peer coaching
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Day 10: Showcase day — present to peers, educators, or community partners
Questions?
If you have any questions, send us an email at contact@mindoncivic.com or send a message through our contact page.
Who It’s For
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Incoming and current high school (grades 9 through 12), and college students
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Anyone interested in advocacy, public policy, or social justice
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Students who want to turn awareness into action
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No application fee and no GPA requirement
Interest Form
If you are interested in joining, fill out this form.