Despite knowing the history of the disenfranchisement and marginalization of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, I still felt hopeful. My 2008 blog became a clearinghouse of information on how to register to vote, how to get involved on campus, how to canvass as a campaign volunteer—I was empowering people with information and ways to get involved. It was during that time that I realized civic engagement was the path to reclaiming power.
This new incubator was inspired by President Obama’s call to service and the spirit of hope that fueled his commitment to grassroots organizing. And we hope it will empower a new generation of people to make civic engagement more accessible to their communities. If you have an idea that would harness the power of grassroots organizing, empower the next generation of change makers, and put tools into the hands of people making local change—the incubator can help you take it to the next level.