Stronger Together
About Civica Initiatives
Civica Initiatives is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people and strengthening democratic institutions.
Our communities consist of small groups that are seeking major policy changes but are often constrained by limited resources. By working under one umbrella, we increase the resources available to each initiative and magnify the reach of our communities. That makes us stronger together.
Civica Initiatives’ team members have led coalitions, managed communications teams, and served in legislative and government agencies. And we have a record of success.
Shared Resources
Civica Initiatives advances a community’s goals by sharing resources across our initiatives and by driving impact through strategic alliances.
Facilitating strategic conversations
Supporting educational efforts
Building capacity and sharpening skills
Mobilizing stakeholders, engaging key officials
Successful Campaigns
Led by Ilir Zherka, Civica Initiatives CEO
Advanced full democracy for residents of Washington, DC
Promoted U.S. intervention to stop ethnic cleansing campaign in Kosovo and support Kosovo’s independence
Co-founded the Service Year Alliance
Secured exchange program exceptions to pandemic travel bans
Increased government funding of educational exchange programs (from $590M to $760M)
Meet Ilir Zherka, Founder and CEO
Ilir Zherka has real-world experience developing strategies, increasing capacity, and leading advocacy campaigns.
Ilir has worked in the U.S. Congress, on presidential campaigns, and as a political appointee. He has also served as the executive director of four organizations and is the author of Winning the Inside Game: The Handbook of Advocacy Strategies.
Under his leadership, organizations have achieved successful policy results through advocacy initiatives, including securing critical exchange program exceptions to Covid travel restrictions; helping Washington, D.C. advance budget autonomy; and urging U.S. intervention to stop ethnic cleansing in Kosovo.
The Latest from the Experts at Civic Initiatives
Read the latest tips of advocacy, strategic planning, training, and more from the team at Civica Initiatives.
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