Pathways of Public Service and Civic Engagement


The Pathways of Public Service and Civic Engagement describe the variety of ways people can use their knowledge, skills, and talents to improve their communities.

Many of these pathways overlap and intersect, which demonstrates the value of using multiple strategies when working toward social change.

The Pathways to Public Service and Civic Engagement were developed by Stanford University's Haas Center for Public Service

Pathways of Public Service & Civic Engagement

Explore the Pathways to Service and Civic Engagement

Community Engaged Learning and Research

Connection of academic coursework and research to community-identified issues. 

Community Engaged Learning & Research

Community Organizing and Activism

Raising awareness about a social issue to educate and inspire action in others.

Community Organizing & Activism

Direct Service

Addressing immediate community needs, usually through contact with the individuals or groups being served.

Direct Service

Philanthropy

Donating funds to causes that contribute to the common good. 

Philanthropy

Policy and Governance

Engaging in political processes, including public governance and policy shaping.

Policy & Governance

Social Entrepreneurship and Corporate Social Responsibility

Developing new solutions to existing problems using business or private sector strategies.

Social Entrepreneuship & Corporate Social Responsibility

Sign Up for a CSL Newsletter

Keep up to date with events, funding opportunities, and more! Each newsletter type is sent at a varying degree of frequency. Unsubscribe at any time!