In local municipalities & townships across America, public service employees and everyday citizens support areas of community life. This event gives us a chance for “Shining a spotlight and living civic excellence”, says Councilwoman At-Large Kimberly Francois. We’ll award Hometown Medals of Service to those whose commitment is more than just checking a box. Others being recognized include residents who’re #CitizenStrong in serving hometown needs.

The event is set for October 22, 2022 at 10:00am - 11:30am, Franklin Youth Center, 429 Lewis Street in Somerset NJ. It will celebrate the people, places and perspectives that make us a vibrant community. Among the invited guests are public officials, local leaders, neighbors and friends. The program will feature artist performance and civic inspiration. We’re proud of Franklin Township being a Central Jersey Leader as we continue “Empowering residents on moving towards best outcomes”, says Mayor Phil Kramer.

It’s often said that elections should matter as the vote is our voice. Choices we make help determine results we see and heights we reach. Members of the community can sometimes become discouraged and disengaged from the process. Here’s a way according to longtime Franklin resident Douette ‘Doc’ Cunningham for joining-in a novel approach that’s “Leading a New Dawning of Civic Engagement and Public Good in America.” As a community, we can do our part around a sense of national purpose.

The event is created and co-produced by ‘See America In Color’, a social-edge campaign & platform founded by Cunningham. Much appreciation goes out to the Franklin Township Council. In addition, we received timely support/feedback from the Parks & Rec Department and its senior leadership of Director Beau Byrtus and Deputy Director Windy White. Together, we’ll learn more from the role our youth are playing in Social Challenge Contests (Essay, Arts, Tech) at their schools, as well as the poll question of “What makes the United States of America, united?”

Residents are invited to submit social media video/thoughts to the poll question or on what civics means to you, until October 15th using #YourTakeFranklin. Some might be featured at the event as part of an emerging movement. Connect with us on Twitter @TwpofFranklin, @SeeUSAinColor, 732-649-3005, doc2comm@gmail.com to get with the program.

See America In Color: A Better Picture of Civic & Social Issues for a Higher Level of Citizenship.

Join public officials, local leaders, special guests, friends, & neighbors to celebrate the people, places & perspectives that make us a vibrant community.

National Civics Day: Franklin - FAQ

1. What is National Civics Day?
• It celebrates the importance of civics education and commemorates the day when the Federalist Papers were first published on October 27, 1787. These Papers came about during the dawning of America for educating citizens on ratifying the Constitution.
2. Why should we attend?
• To hear more about how communities can create a shift in citizenship and leadership.
3. What are the important themes/takeaways we can expect?
• Learn how hometowns can build-on their story and ‘T.E.L.L. It’ by:
• Teaming-up with local partners in civic engagement and community life.
• Empowering residents on moving towards best outcomes.
• Living civic excellence in the community.
• Leading a new dawning of civic engagement and public good in America.

1. What does the program offer for the everyday citizen, young or older?
• You’ll be inspired by the example of those receiving Hometown Medals of Service Awards and #CitizenStrong recognition.
2. How are the youth being included in this effort?
• Some are entering Social Challenge Contests (Essay, Arts, Tech) at their schools or handling the poll question on social media or performing at the event.
3. Why should we think that this program will make a difference?
• It’s kind of a 21^st century movement of ‘We the People’ with a better picture of the issues.
4. How can we support the event and its objectives?
• Connect with us on social media; partner with us on a ‘civic life’ event.