Community Engagement University is a free nine-week program designed for active community residents looking to learn more about City services and how they relate to their everyday professional and personal lives.

Registration for the Spring 2026 session has closed.

 To join the waitlist for Fall 2026 Email Alex 

Why Participate in CEU?

• Gain Insight: Understand how local government functions.
• Engage with Experts: Interact with knowledgeable staff about City finances, operations, projects, and services.
• Be a Role Model: Serve as a role model for community and neighborhood residents.
• Improve Quality of Life: Help enhance the quality of life for Kansas City residents.
• Build Sustainability: Contribute to building a livable, sustainable community.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Learn about volunteer opportunities in city government.

Class Schedule & Summary

• Program Duration: Nine sessions beginning April 7th, 2026
• Time: Sessions are from 6-8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays weekly
  
• Format: Hands-on, interactive program
  
• Eligibility: Kansas City, Missouri, residents 18 years of age and older

Additional Information

• Course materials will be provided during the first session.
• Participants will have tours of various City facilities. Information about the tours, including the dates and times, will be provided during the first session.
• Light refreshments will be provided.
• Participants need to attend at least seven of the nine sessions to graduate with a certification.
• If you cannot attend most of the meetings, please consider taking the course at another time to allow spots for those who can attend.

Session Breakdown

Week 1: April 7th - How Kansas City Works, Foundations of Local Government 
Overview of Local Structure, Leadership, and how residents engage.

Week 2: April 14th - Civic Power, Civic Engagement & Legal Systems 
Legal Rights, Justice, Representation, and Government Accountability.

Week 3: April 21st - Neighborhoods First, Building and Supporting Strong Communities
Neighborhood Support, Housing, and Community Development.

Week 4: April 28th - Funding, Shelter and Stability, Housing, Homelessness, and the Budget              Housing Programs, Affordability, and Support for Vulnerable Populations.

Week 5: May 5th - Healthy KC, Public Health, Wellness, and Culture                                                               City Services that Promote Wellness and Quality of Life.

Week 6: May 12th- Built to Last, Infrastructure, Utilities, and Maintenance 
The backbone of City Function: Water, Waste, and Streets.

Week 7: May 19th - Keep KC Moving, Planning, Transit, and Growth
Transit Systems and Strategic Development.

Week 8: May 26th- Keep KC Safe, Emergency Services and Public Safety
Examine public safety services, including police, fire, and emergency management.

Week 9: June 2nd - Destination KC, Economic Growth, Tourism and Communication 
How KC promotes itself, grows jobs, and attracts visitors.

Contact

The course is facilitated by Cookingham-Noll Fellow:

 Alex Freeman

Kansas City is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event. If you need reasonable accommodation, please email us with your name and what accommodation you require at least 5 days prior to the event.