As part of the transition into the next chapter of Surdna's work, the Effective Citizenry program is closing down.

Since its inception in 1994, the EC program has passionately advocated for and supported youth civic engagement in its myriad forms. Humbled by the unwavering dedication of young people and the adults who work with them to transform the world into a more just and equitable place, EC has endeavored to keep its ear to the ground in order to be adaptive to the ever changing conditions of young people's lives. Before his departure from Surdna, EC's founding director, Robert Sherman, wrote the story of the program with trademark flourish and attention to detail. Please take a moment to read that piece here.

This is a moment to reflect on past accomplishments, but also an occasion to look forward with great anticipation to the next chapter of the Foundation's work. Surdna's board and staff have worked diligently to arrive at our new mission and revised program framework. The foregrounding of social justice values and the pursuit of sustainable communities ensures that the principles and lessons of the EC program will continue in the next chapter of Surdna's work. Please continue to visit our Web site for updates as the contours of our new programs take shape.

The three strategies that anchor the program - Youth Organizing, Youth Media, and Youth Governance/Advocacy - will be phased out in different stages, but all by the end of our fiscal year 2011. If you have been invited to apply for a final EC grant, you can submit a proposal below. Please note, only applications solicited by EC staff will be accepted.