The Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, through its Government Affairs Committee and the Fairfax Forward Foundation, in partnership with Fairfax City have created a new civic engagement program to educate residents and business owners about their community and local government. This program aims to foster civic engagement, improve public understanding of government operations, and cultivate future community leaders.
Program Overview
Duration: 7 sessions (once per week September 10 – October 22)
Commitment: 3 hours per session
Tuition Fee: NONE (This is made possible by support from the Fairfax Forward Foundation, the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Fairfax.)
Target Audience: Fairfax City residents and business owners interested in local governance and community development.
Class Size: 20–30 participants to ensure interactive sessions.
Program Goals
Increase awareness of local government functions and services.
Build stronger relationships between residents, business owners, and government officials.
Encourage civic participation through volunteering, advisory boards, or elected office.
Develop informed ambassadors for the community.
Key Features
Interactive Learning: Hands-on activities such as mock council meetings or budget simulations.
Guest Speakers: Participation from elected officials, department heads, and community leaders.
Networking Opportunities: Build connections with fellow residents, business owners, and government representatives.
Field Visits: Tours of facilities like city hall, public works sites, or local businesses.
Benefits for Participants
Gain a deeper understanding of how Fairfax City operates.
Build relationships with local leaders and fellow residents.
Develop skills to engage in civic activities or leadership roles.
Receive a certificate of completion as recognition for their efforts.
This civic engagement opportunity will empower participants to deepen their understanding of Fairfax City and become active contributors to their community while fostering transparency and trust between residents, business owners, and local government.
Schedule:
September 10, 6pm – 9pm – Welcome to Fairfax City*
September 17, 6pm – 9pm – Budgeting for Fairfax*
September 24, 6pm – 9pm – Building Our Community*
October 1, 6pm – 9pm – Public Safety in Action*
October 8, 6pm – 9pm – Our Unsung Heroes – Public Work & Transportation*
October 15, 6pm – 9pm – Education & Quality of Life*
October 22, 6pm – 9pm – ENGAGE! Community Impact EXPO**
October 28 – Reception** at 6pm. Graduation at 7pm
*Dinner will be provided.
**Light refreshments will be served.
Registration is required. All participants MUST be registered no later than close of business on Friday, September 10.
While attendance at all seven sessions is not mandatory, it is HIGHLY recommended in order to get the MOST out of the experience.
Space is LIMITED! Register today!
This is a FREE event!
Contact Jennifer Rose, Executive Director, Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce at executivedirector@cfcc.org or 703-268-5870 for questions or more information.
To request this information in an alternate format or to request reasonable accommodations, call 703-385-7850, TTY 711)