Akron Documenters, representing your city
Akron Documenters trains and pays residents to document local government meetings with notes and live-tweet threads. We then make those meeting summaries available as a new public record.
Representing many parts of Akron, nearly 30 Akronites have registered and have been trained to be Akron Documenters. They are already out in the community documenting government meetings and supporting civic engagement. Ranging in age from 16 to 81, they have a variety of backgrounds and represent the rich diversity that is Akron. Here are just a few of your neighbors who have stepped up as Documenters in service to Akron. Consider joining them.
Documenters encourages civic engagement, while providing quality opportunities and skills training that support writing and community involvement. Being a Documenter has increased my community involvement and understanding of local government.
Bishop Cameron Nelson, Cuyahoga Falls
I love Akron. I love seeing so many people invested in the good of the community. … Residents are in the best position to see issues and consider how policy-making might impact their neighbors and friends.
Meagan Rodgers, Wallhaven
Collectively we start to see the whole story. That is what independent local journalism affords the community–more perspectives to get a more wholistic view of their city. In addition, some stories aren’t large enough for some reporting outlets. Independent journalism provides a way for these stories to be shared.
Shaneen A. Harris, Maple Valley
Our government derives its power from and works ‘of the people, by the people, and for the people.’ Local journalism can provide the information, and the energy, that fuels civic engagement.
Rick Bohan, Akron
Independent journalism allows for a wide variety of diverse perspectives to be heard. … Akron is in the midst of a critical transition as we welcome a new administration. Our independent journalists will deliver critical details to residents.
Britt Oliver, Highland Square
There is a need for increased coverage of local government in Akron, and the Documenters program will help make this information more accessible to the average Akronite. Being an Akron Documenter is a way that I can be more involved in my community. Plus, I really like taking notes at meetings!
Mel Mohler, West Hill
Help Documenters keep local leaders accountable
Signal Akron trains and pays residents to document local government meetings so our community is informed and elected officials are held accountable.