Our Work
Civic Media is essential to democracy
Access to trustworthy, relevant information shapes every aspect of civic life — from voting and public health to housing and education. When people have access to quality information, civic participation grows and communities flourish. But when information is scarce, engagement declines and misinformation thrives.
We believe that strengthening democracy requires more than saving traditional local newsrooms — it demands building an equitable, community-driven information ecosystem. That’s why we’ve developed two key tools to support this vision: the Civic Information Index, which maps where access to civic information is most at risk, and the Civic Media Playbook, a step-by-step guide to co-creating locally rooted media solutions.
Together, these tools help communities identify information needs, design responses, and strengthen the role of civic media from the ground up.
The Civic Information Index
We think resources should flow to the communities that can benefit the most. The Civic Information Index is a data-informed tool that helps pinpoint communities with low civic health and limited access to trustworthy local news. By mapping where civic information gaps exist — especially in historically underserved BIPOC and immigrant communities — the Index helps us and our partners prioritize where support is most urgently needed.
The Civic Media Playbook
Once we’ve identified these communities, the Playbook offers a practical framework for action. This interactive, DIY platform provides step-by-step strategies for journalists, organizers, and local leaders to co-design civic media projects rooted in community listening. From conducting information needs assessments to launching sustainable media projects, the Playbook supports a new kind of information sharing — one grounded in equity, collaboration, and local trust.
Available in both English and Spanish