Apply for the Citizens Academy

NEIGHBORHOOD AMBASSADOR CITIZENS ACADEMY

The Neighborhood Ambassador Citizens Academy is an interactive civic and public information program that provides residents with the opportunity to learn more about their local government and the services available to them in an easy and interactive way. This 12-week program is intended to provide participants with insights into the functions of local government, get a behind-the-scenes look at how all departments operate, gain valuable insights into the decision-making processes, and provide an outlet for citizen input. All sessions are led by department experts who offer in-depth knowledge and firsthand insights into their respective areas of expertise. Through interactive sessions, tours, presentations, and hands-on activities, participants gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities local government faces. (This program is a free public information program.)

The Citizen’s Academy is offered twice annually. The winter cycle includes morning sessions with tours, while the summer cycle consists of afternoon sessions without tours.

2026 SCHEDULE

• Winter Cycle - Starting January 7th, 2026, through March 25th, 2026, with weekly Wednesday morning sessions from 9:00 AM to Noon (with facility tours).
• Summer Cycle - Starting May 12th, 2026, through July 28th, 2026, with weekly Tuesday afternoon sessions from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM (without facility tours).

Participants are expected to attend at least 9 of the 12 sessions to receive a Certificate of Completion at the graduation ceremony. Workshop sessions will be held at various locations throughout the County. Times and locations are subject to change. Participants are responsible for their transportation to multiple locations. A class schedule will be provided upon acceptance and as part of your program packet at the first session.

Please note: Enrollment in the Citizens Academy is limited. Please note that light snacks and refreshments will be provided at each session.

PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

Objective: The Citizens Academy is a series of professionally led workshop sessions designed to familiarize citizens with Manatee County government and the services it provides.

Benefits: Learn first-hand about Manatee County’s government, interact with county officials, learn about tools offered to county residents, and much more!

Class Size: Classes are limited to 30 participants. The Citizen’s Academy is open to anyone interested, who must be 18 years old to participate.

Curriculum: The program is offered twice yearly, with a winter cycle and a summer cycle. The winter cycle runs from January 7th, 2026, through March 25th, 2026, with weekly Wednesday morning sessions from 9:00 AM to Noon. The summer cycle runs from May 12th, 2026, through July 28th, 2026, with weekly Tuesday afternoon sessions from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

READY TO APPLY?

Applications must be completed via online form. Class size is limited to approximately 30 participants. First-time applicants will be given priority. Returning participants may be considered as space allows.

Apply at the link above!

View the Citizens Academy Program Sessions from 2025 here