Taking the Fear Out of Local Politics
At Via Foundation, we believe that cities and towns need the engagement of active citizens in order to function well. There are various ways to revitalize towns and community life – organizing community events is one way, serving on town council is another. In our program Taking the Fear Out of Local Politics, we help people considering running for local council prepare to take on leadership roles in the municipality.
In 2022, we had:
48
program participants
38
of whom ran for local council
70%
of whom were women
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Taking the Fear Out of Local Politics program consists of several parts. Participants take part in:
- Learning and sharing sessions in person and online, focused on practical knowledge and personal development.
- Tailored mentoring with people who have experience in municipal politics.
- Accelerator mini-grant for the participant’s project to help them on their journey into municipal politics.
"If it weren’t for Via Foundation, I wouldn’t have swung into action. Now I truly believe that some positive change is possible."
"This program is full of hope that the world can be alright if we try to make it that way. Preferably by joining forces and sharing our experience."
"I met an endless number of inspiring people who dedicate their time to the community in which they live and dream."
Previous
Next
LONG TERM PROGRAM GOALS
By the 2026 local elections, we will:
- support 60 active people so that they are better prepared to engage in local politics
- extend learning opportunities to another 150 people in topics related to municipal politics
- distribute CZK 440,000 ($20,000) for mini-grants that will help participants on their journey into municipal politics
- reach out to active people in regions where no one has attended the program so far, and involve disadvantaged groups.
