Classes & Materials: You can access course materials and contact us about upcoming programs on this website.

The South Carolina Progressive Network operates the Modjeska School for Human Rights, a community-organizing school, which often features DemocraSC 101-style curriculum and deep dives into state history.

Practical, grassroots strategies in South Carolina include attending municipal meetings to speak during public comment, applying to local citizen advisory boards, organizing petition drives, and engaging with established statewide advocacy networks to mobilize local voters effectively.

The South Carolina Association of Counties’ Directory of County Officials identifies all elected and appointed county officials in the state. This popular publication also identifies SCAC’s Officers, Board of Directors, Past Presidents and corporate partners; regional councils of government; federal and state officials; and members of the South Carolina General Assembly. Addresses and telephone numbers are included for county officials, state officials and members of the General Assembly.

Engage Locally

• Attend and Speak at Public Meetings: Familiarize yourself with the public comment periods at your city council, county council, or school board meetings. Reaching out to the Clerk to Council can help you understand the rules for adding your issue to the agenda.
• Serve on Advisory Boards: Check your local county or municipality’s website to apply for vacant seats on citizen service boards, commissions, and planning committees.
• Participate in Civic Academies: Enroll in community leadership programs, such as police ride-alongs or civic academies. In the Upstate, consider specialized programs like the Grassroots Leadership Development Institute.

Build Grassroots Coalitions

• Map Your Community: Connect with neighbors through localized platforms (like neighborhood association listservs or community Facebook groups) to discuss specific, shared issues.
• Formulate Action Plans: Define your objective clearly, align your efforts with key stakeholders, and utilize digital tools like petition platforms and email sign-ups to demonstrate widespread community support.
• Collaborate with Nonprofits: Partner with established organizations to amplify your voice and access resources. Statewide networks like Together SC serve as excellent hubs for community empowerment and equity work.

Participate in the Political Process

• Volunteer for Campaigns: Join the campaigns of local candidates running for city council, school board, or sheriff. Knocking on doors and hosting house parties are direct ways to influence local policy priorities.
• Leverage State Resources: Utilize portals like SC.GOV to track legislative updates and state election commission data, or reach out directly to your local Council of Governments (e.g., the Appalachian Council of Governments) for regional infrastructure and planning data.

The SC Appleseed Legal Justice Center shares information for legal professionals and members of the community who seek to update their knowledge on SC law. Click here to read their guide to getting involved in local government.