The Ginsberg Center is now accepting proposals for nomination to The Davis Projects for Peace summer grants program. The University of Michigan is one of 90 universities invited to nominate proposals. On behalf of the University, the Ginsberg Center will submit one main proposal and one alternate proposal for consideration by the Davis Foundation. If selected, proposed projects will receive $10,000 in summer funding. Applications are open until December 2.
We are a community and civic engagement center with a mission to cultivate and steward equitable partnerships between communities and the University of Michigan in order to advance social change for the public good. Based upon this mission, our vision is for inclusive democracy; thriving, diverse communities; and equity and social justice.
Our work centers around translating our principles into action through:
- Partnerships: We cultivate an expansive network of community partners (nonprofits, local governments, and K-12 schools), surface community-identified priorities, and connect them with students, faculty, and staff who are invested in positive social change.
- Preparation: We prepare and support students and faculty and staff to create socially just community engagement experiences through advising, consulting, trainings and grants
- Pathways: We encourage the development of lifelong habits of civic learning through multiple pathways to civic engagement & community change.
At Ginsberg (Our Blog)
Our blog shares emerging stories around Ginsberg's work at U-M and in the communities beyond. From profiles to match stories to announcements, you'll find a wealth of information below.
Empowering Advocacy through Data: Mapping Manufactured Housing Communities with MHAction and CTAC
In collaboration with MHAction, Ginsberg's Community Technical Assistance Collaborative (CTAC) developed an innovative web-based mapping application that visualizes manufactured housing communities (MHCs) across Michigan. The project's aim was to create an accessible tool that could assist in the organization’s advocacy for affordable and quality manufactured housing, and to bolster their broader campaigns for racial and economic justice.
Student Organization Spotlight: BLUElab is a collaborative space on campus for socially conscious engineering
The University of Michigan is home to many engineering-focused student organizations, but one in particular stands out. BLUElab is the largest sustainably-focused engineering project team on campus. As a multidisciplinary design team that focuses on developing sustainable solutions alongside community partners, BLUElab emulates the Ginsberg Center’s principles of Centering on Equity and Starting with Community.
Ginsberg Center cultivates long-term partnership with Language Resource Center
Among the Ginsberg Center's central principles is the goal to foster long-term partnerships. The Center aims to establish enduring relationships with community partners that extend beyond the scope of a single project or engagement. The Center's partnership with the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts' Language Resource Center is an embodiment of the commitment to that principle.
So Cool, So Just Fair brings together students who want to create change
The Ginsberg Center recently partook in the So Cool, So Just Fair, a recruitment opportunity for campus organizations to connect and be in community with students and organizations that are actively working on campus to create change. This event was hosted by the University of Michigan's Community Action and Social Change Undergraduate Minor with support from Ginsberg.
Student Advisory Board kicks off for 2024-2025 academic year
Earlier this week, the Ginsberg Center’s 2024-2025 Student Advisory Board held its first meeting. The Student Advisory Board provides guidance, support, and feedback that advances the work of the Ginsberg Center and community engagement in the broader University of Michigan community. During monthly meetings, board members provide input on programs, initiatives, and the direction of the Ginsberg Center, and provide feedback for other University community engagement efforts. Student Advisory Board members represent Ginsberg Center programs and initiatives, student organizations (particularly those who focus on service, social justice, advocacy, and/or activism), and the campus at large.
The Ginsberg Center has election resources for you
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, explore our student, faculty, and staff resources as you engage, make meaning, and prepare to vote. Democratic engagement—including non-partisan voter engagement, civics and media literacy, and dialogue across difference—are crucial components within the full scope of our civic engagement work.
Ginsberg Collaborates on Intergenerational Dialogue Series on Voting
The Ginsberg Center, in partnership with MCSP and WeROC, will be hosting Why Vote? An Intergenerational Dialogue Series this semester. This series brings together voters of all ages to build understanding across generations (and other demographic groups) around attitudes toward voting and other forms of civic engagement.
Find volunteer opportunities related to your interests on our portal!
Connect2Community is managed by the Ginsberg Center, in collaboration with the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.