Civic engagement encompasses the many ways citizens participate in their communities and democratic processes beyond simply voting. This includes attending council meetings, joining community associations, volunteering for local organizations, participating in public consultations, serving on municipal boards and committees, running for office, advocating for causes, and staying informed about local issues. Strong civic engagement produces better governance because officials hear from more residents and make decisions reflecting broader community input. Barriers to engagement—including time constraints, language barriers, lack of information, and feeling unheard—can result in decisions made by small groups of already-engaged citizens. Communities actively work to increase and diversify civic participation.