Neighborhood College

Neighborhood College is a FREE program that aims to foster a more active and informed community. The program gives Arlingtonians who want to become more involved an opportunity to understand their local government and Countywide issues.

Since its inception in 2000, more than 500 Arlingtonians have graduated from the program. Many have gone on to become neighborhood leaders, members of advisory groups and commissions, civic association officers, County Board members, volunteers at nonprofit organizations, local activists, and more. 

Through this program, participants:

• Learn about various County departments and agencies and interact with key staff
• Tour County facilities to learn about County operations and services
• Gain the knowledge needed to increase their impact within the County and their communities
• Meet and network with other Arlingtonians interested in improving their communities

Classes will be held on consecutive Wednesdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m. To graduate, participants are expected to attend at least eight of the 10 sessions; attend a County Board meeting, a commission meeting, or a civic association meeting during the program period; and commit to volunteering 10 hours in Arlington County within six months of completing the program.

Additional Information

• The program consists of a mix of virtual and in-person sessions (see example schedule below)
• The program is open to anyone aged 18 or older who lives or owns a business in Arlington
• Graduation will take place at the final session

The technology needed to participate online is:

• A computer with webcam, tablet with camera, or smartphone
• A device with a microphone or headphones with a microphone
• High-speed internet connection

*Topics and facility tour locations subject to change