Sarasota County’s popular Civics 101 program to continue next year

Interested persons encouraged to apply soon for Thursday classes, as enrollment is limited to 25

Image courtesy Sarasota County
Image courtesy Sarasota County

In 2016, Sarasota County will continue offering a “backstage pass” to residents through its popular Civics 101 program, the county has announced.

Act II: VIP Services will begin on Jan. 21 and continue on Thursday evenings (6 to 8:15 p.m.) through March 17, a county news release says. The location will change for each class, the release notes.

The county does not charge a fee for this course; materials and refreshments will be provided, the release points out. Any adult who lives or works in Sarasota County is eligible to participate in the program, the release says, although enrollment is limited to the first 25 applicants.

In the fall of 2015, 25 residents took advantage of Act I: Setting the Stage, the release continues. “Those students tackled a budgeting exercise, tested the Contact Center Knowledge Base, got up close and personal with service vehicles and transportation operations, received a new perspective on a popular recreation area, and put their community planning skills to the test,” the release adds. “Join the class in Act II: VIP Services in January” for programming related to the county’s constitutional offices, Emergency Services, Health and Human Services, parks and libraries, the release continues. “You can participate in Act II without having taken part in Act I,” it points out.

All presentations are designed to enhance awareness and understanding of how Sarasota County works and what is has to offer, the release explains. The presentations also include the following:

  • Informational materials and promotional handouts.
  • Question-and-answer opportunities with county administrators, staff and other Sarasota County leaders.
  • Networking with community members who share similar interests.

“If you want to know more about Sarasota County, have an interest in local government, or are simply looking for a fun learning experience, apply today,” the release adds. Applications are available on the Sarasota County Neighborhood Services website (visit www.scgov.net and enter keyword: Civics 101). Interested parties also may call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 861-5000 or email neighbor@scgov.net.