🗞️ We’re Getting Engaged! Announcing the Union of EngagingCities and the APA Community Engagement Interest Group, Plus the NPC25 Pop-Up Podcast
May 9, 2025 edition
EngagingCities is officially merging with the APA Community Engagement Interest Group!
Originally created by Chris Haller and managed by Kelly Hickler, EngagingCities set out to create a collaborative space for professionals passionate about meaningful community engagement. Rather than continue separately, it only makes sense for two groups with similar goals to team up. By combining our efforts, we’re bringing together the resources of each and expanding our reach—making it easier for more people to connect, learn, and share ideas.
The Details:
The EngagingCities website, with a wealth of resources, events, success stories, and more has found a new home at apacommunityengagement.org — a collaborative community site where it’s easy to explore, connect, and contribute.
The Fireside Chats podcast is being rebranded to EngagingCommunities, with all past episodes still available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, and the website. Check out the latest episode further below!
The EngagingCities LinkedIn page will soon be sunsetted, so be sure to follow the APA Community Engagement Interest Group on LinkedIn to stay connected.
Past issues of the EngagingCities newsletter remain available at engagingcities.substack.com.
We’re proud of everything we built through EngagingCities — especially the incredible insights shared by our podcast guests and community. We’re excited to continue the journey together, under one banner, with even more opportunities to engage, collaborate, learn, and inspire. Let’s keep this momentum going and keep building this community together!
If you haven’t already, please join the Interest Group now. It is free and open to all—no APA membership required.
You shared and we listened…
You shared your ideas, and we’re bringing them to life! Based on your feedback, we’ve designed a lineup of content, events, and opportunities to support peer learning, connection, and inspiration. Take a look at what’s in store—we hope you’ll jump in and join us!
💡 Insights
Explore stories, strategies, and standout work from community engagement professionals across our network. Get inspired by what others are doing—and share your own successes too!
📚 Resources
Browse our curated library of tools, guides, and best practices to support your community engagement work. Have a great resource to share? We welcome your suggestions and additions!
🎙️ EngagingCommunities Podcast
Candid conversations with the changemakers, doers, and innovators shaping the future of community engagement. Tune in for real stories, fresh insights, and practical strategies you can put to work in your own community. Check out the latest episode now, where Kelly was on scene at NPC25 in Denver for a fun pop-up podcast.
❓ Question of the Month
Each month we’ll feature a question submitted by one of our members in the newsletter and on LinkedIn—so you can share your insights, hear from peers, and learn from each other’s experiences. Submit your question now!
📅 Events
Join us for monthly online and in-person events designed to keep our community connected and learning from one another. From peer-led sessions to moderated panels, each event is an opportunity to share, grow, and get inspired.
🧠 Masterminds
Stuck on something? You’re not alone. Bring your challenge, and let’s workshop it together. This collaborative, real-time problem-solving session is full of fresh ideas and “aha” moments—powered by your peers. Each session centers around a shared theme to guide the conversation.
The first session is scheduled for May 21st. Register here.
💬 Community Voices
Join a dynamic panel of practitioners and thought leaders in community engagement for honest, energizing conversations about real-world experiences, timely topics, and the ideas shaping our field. Ask questions, share insights, and be part of the conversation.
The first session will be scheduled soon - stay tuned!
📈 Trend Talks
This interactive meet & greet blends networking with a look ahead. Come ready to connect with fellow community engagement professionals, share your experiences, and explore new ideas and industry trends.
The first session will be scheduled soon - stay tuned!
🍻 Happy Hours & Meetups
We will host happy hours and other meetup events at APA and allied conferences throughout the year. If you are interested in hosting an event let us know!
👉We Want YOU! Join Us Now!
Ready to dive in? Explore the links above, mark your calendar, and get involved. This community is stronger because of you. Membership is free and open to anyone, regardless of APA membership status.
Join:
Follow:
Give Input:
Want to get involved in the leadership team or contribute content? Let us know! We’re building this group together.
Email Us: hello@apacommunityengagement.org
The EngagingCities Newsletter is proudly sponsored by Konveio:
