Course designed to make people aware of how the county operates and the resources it offers to the public
Sarasota County will continue offering a “backstage pass” to residents through the popular Civics 101 program, which will return from 6 to 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, July 7, the county has announced.
Titled Act II: VIP Services, the new course will continue on Thursday evenings through Sept. 1; it is “an encore performance of the module that was offered in January,” a news release says.
“Most people are pretty confident they know how their county government operates; then they participate in Civics 101, and they’re blown away by all they didn’t know,” says Outreach Specialist Miranda Lansdale, who coordinates the program, in the release. “We try to keep each night exciting, as we explore libraries, parks, emergency services and other county departments.”
“Class presentations are designed to enhance awareness and understanding of how Sarasota County works and what it has to offer residents,” the release continues. “Each session offers fun and educational opportunities, including first-hand perspective on current topics, an activity or tour, and enthusiasm from staff and students alike,” the release adds.
There is no cost to register for the course; materials and refreshments are provided, the release notes. Anyone who lives or works in Sarasota County is eligible to participate in Civics 101, although module enrollment is limited to 25 students, the release points out.
The location will change for each class, to offer unique perspectives on county departments and services, the release adds.
Those who would like to know more about Sarasota County, have an interest in local government or are simply looking for a unique experience are encouraged to apply, the release says. Applications are available on the Sarasota County Neighborhood Services website, www.scgov.net, keyword “Civics 101.”
More information is also available by calling the Sarasota County Contact Center at 861-5000 or by email at neighbor@scgov.net.