Engagement

& Advocacy

Get Involved. Build Power.
Strengthen Community.

A person wearing glasses, a face mask, a beige beret, and a red sweater is holding a microphone and speaking at a round table during a meeting. Other people are seated around the table, and some are taking photos or listening attentively in the background.

LINC UP believes that strong neighborhoods are built through resident participation, equitable systems, and intentional partnerships. From civic engagement and leadership development to policy advocacy and community partnerships, we work with residents and organizations to build collective power and advance housing justice in Grand Rapids.

Let’s Connect! ➡ civic-engagement@lincrev.org

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Civic Engagement

Civic engagement is at the heart of community change. We equip residents with the tools, information, and platforms needed to engage effectively in local decision‑making.

What this looks like: → Voter outreach and education → Neighborhood leadership tables → Community forums, listening sessions, and resident panels → Collaboration with city and county agencies on equitable policy design

A group of people standing in a line inside a room with brick walls and large windows, during a training or workshop session. There are tables and chairs in the room, with some items on the tables, including a small orange container, markers, and paper.

Leadership & Advocacy Training

Our LINC Academy for Social Transformation (LAST) class prepares Grand Rapids residents to advocate with confidence, lead community efforts, and influence policy outcomes. Participants build skills in organizing, public speaking, civic systems, coalition building, and strategic advocacy.

What to expect: → Interactive full‑day sessions → Workshops facilitated by community leaders → Hands‑on advocacy practice → Connections with neighbors and civic partners

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PARTNERSHIPS

LINC UP collaborates with organizations, funders, businesses, faith communities, and local institutions to amplify impact. Partners play a role in creating opportunities, expanding reach, and supporting residents in their efforts to shape equitable outcomes citywide.

Partnering opportunities include: → Co‑hosting community events and trainings → Policy and advocacy coalitions → Resident education initiatives → Resource and referral networks → Sponsorship and program support

A group of people at a protest with signs. One sign reads 'People Over Profit' in colorful letters, and another says 'Senior Housing' with a drawing of an elderly person.

Housing Advocacy

Housing is both a human right and a cornerstone of resilient neighborhoods. LINC UP advances housing justice by bridging resident voices with policy influence, and ensuring that affordable housing remains prioritized in city planning and investment decisions.

We mobilize community members to: → Participate in housing policy discussions → Advocate for equitable zoning, funding, and protections → Engage in public testimony, task forces, and advisory groups → Demand accountability for affordable housing goals