ABSTRACT
Having served as an aide to a county commissioner and a state representative, I had a basic knowledge of local and state issues. I had also been a member of some clubs, such as Common Cause, the League of Women Voters, the Sierra Club, and the Chamber of Commerce. Civic associations are helpful in framing the issues for your community. They explore and evaluate ideas before coming to a consensus. The membership can then publicize the opinions of the group. Even if you are unable to attend most meetings, their newsletters provide you with information regarding their current activities. Your local phone book lists all such community organizations.
