National League of Cities

Organization Description

The National League of Cities includes members from all over the country, joining together elected government officials to participate in NLC-run programs, activities, and projects. Municipal leaders are connected with other state leagues to create a linkage between city and state governance. Private and non-profit members are also connected to these governing bodies through the NLC. The services provided by the NLC include:

• Lobbying for civic, state, and private members through grassroots campaigns in Washington D.C.
• Tools, programs, and services for leaders to discover more ways improve their communities
• Networking and engagement opportunities for leaders to collaborate, discover new ideas and share potential solutions
• Information sharing between municipalities, states, or private members with critical issues
• Leadership training programs for civic leaders
• Recognition of successful model projects and promotion of these best practices
• Integration with state resources to strengthen the relationship between state and civic governments
• Positive media coverage to promote cities and local government and draw attention to issues within municipalities

Through these tools provided by the NLC, towns, cities, and states can strengthen their local government and promote community character. Special entities withint the NLC include the Institute for Youth Education & Families, helping youth engage with their communities, learn civic responsibility, and gain a sense of confidence and empowerment; the Center for Research & Innovation where cities can monitor projects, plan for the future, set goals, and evaluate progress; and various Enterprise Programs which bring non-profit organizations and private companies into cities to boost services and resources.