Published June 1 2023
Bellevue Essentials will open your eyes to the who, what and why of city government and the avenues to get involved. People who live or work in Bellevue are invited to apply for the fall session of the civic engagement class, Wednesday evenings, Sept. 20 to Nov. 15.
People can meet alumni and learn more about the program at any of three information sessions – 5:30 p.m., Thursday, June 8, at City Hall; noon, Wednesday, June 14, via Zoom; and 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 20 at Newport Way Library. To reserve a space, email jellenhorn@bellevuewa.gov. You can also check out a video introduction to the Bellevue Essentials experience.
Participants in Bellevue Essentials will experience the daily structure and operations of city government through immersive and interactive learning. They will see the work, challenges and collaboration between staff and community that make Bellevue a great place to live, work and play. Class members finish the course knowing how to impact decision making in the city, with an expanded personal network and greater awareness of volunteer opportunities.
Classes are 5:30-8:30 p.m., on Wednesdays, in addition to two Saturday morning sessions, during which participants explore neighborhoods and parks. Participants meet City Council members and staff leadership, as well as city staff who do the daily work of running Bellevue. Participants must attend nine of 11 sessions to graduate.
Over 340 participants have graduated from Bellevue Essentials since 2013, and many have made an impact in Bellevue through service on city boards and commissions, committees and neighborhood associations.
Tuition is $150 and fee waivers are available to those with financial need.
A cohort of 35 participants will be selected who are demographically representative of Bellevue’s diverse community and are committed to the future of Bellevue and to serving their community.
Applications are due by Thursday, July 20, at 5 p.m. A brochure and an easy application for the 2023 class are available at Bellevue Essentials.