The Change Engine
Foundation/Grantmaker
American Public Square
Teaches people from different backgrounds how to listen, find common ground, and work together even when they disagree. Brings communities together through better conversations about important issues.
About
Teaches people from different backgrounds how to listen, find common ground, and work together even when they disagree. Brings communities together through better conversations about important issues.
How to reach them
civic-dialoguelisten-first-coalition
Services
4High School Civics ClassesFall classes called 'Reimagine the Square' teach high school students about fake news, bias, and civil discussion. In spring, students work together on projects to create their own programs about community issues.
We The Readers Monthly Book ClubJoin a book club that meets every month to read and talk about books on community, history, and how our government works. It's a fun way to learn with others and share ideas about making our communities better.
Portugal Travel Trip with Ambassador Allan KatzAmerican Public Square offers special travel trips to Portugal led by former U.S. Ambassador Allan Katz. These 11-night trips are only for APS members and include visits to museums, palaces, wineries, and historic places. You'll meet local leaders and artists, eat at fancy restaurants including one with a Michelin star, and stay in nice hotels. The trip is limited to 12-18 people to keep it small and friendly. The next trip is planned for Fall 2026. To learn more or save a spot, email erinn@americanpublicsquare.org.
Civics Education for StudentsAmerican Public Square teaches students how to have respectful conversations about important topics. They offer classes in high schools about spotting fake news and understanding bias. College students can become interns and help plan programs. Students learn skills to discuss difficult issues with people who have different opinions. This helps build stronger communities and democracy. High school classes happen in the fall, with hands-on projects in the spring. College interns work on planning events and help other students get involved in civic issues.
Perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act, just once, with beauty and courage. Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love.
Rainer Maria Rilke