Calling All Community Advocates – Apply Now to Neighborhood College

Published on August 26, 2022

Learn how to become a neighborhood advocate and create positive change in your community through Arlington County’s free Neighborhood College program. The application period for the Fall 2022 Session is now open.

The program is geared toward Arlingtonians who want to become more involved in neighborhood and County-wide issues. Participants will learn about many aspects of Arlington County government and practice core communication and influencing skills, key to civic engagement and leadership.

Class sessions will be virtual and held 6:30–9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays from September 28 to November 16. They will feature conversations with County Board members, County staff, local nonprofit leaders, and more. 

Apply to Neighborhood College

The application period will close once 30 applications are submitted. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, live in or own and operate a business in Arlington, and be willing to devote time and energy to improving their communities.

For more information about the program, email Naudy Martinez.

Arlington County employees should contact Naudy Martinez before applying.

About Neighborhood College

Launched in 2000, Neighborhood College is a key component of Arlington’s civic engagement infrastructure. The program seeks to strengthen our community by building broader, more diverse participation in civic life. Neighborhood College aims to prepare Arlingtonians to address issues in their neighborhoods or in the County broadly, and to encourage their involvement in volunteer activities. 

Nearly 400 participants have graduated from Neighborhood College. Many have gone on to become neighborhood leaders, members of advisory groups and commissions, officers in their civic associations, County Board members, volunteers at nonprofit organizations, local activists, and more. County Board members Katie Cristol (class of 2012) and Matt de Ferranti (class of 2017) deepened their engagement in civic affairs after participating in Neighborhood College.

What You Need to Know

• Space is limited to 30 participants
• Spanish interpretation is provided as needed
• Course is FREE 
• Classes will be held 6:30–9:30 p.m. Wednesdays, September 28–November 16
• All sessions will be conducted online