Watkinsville has been recognized as a 2024 All-America City for its transformative, community-driven efforts to strengthen democracy and for its civic infrastructure—the network of relationships, partnerships, and capacities driving effective decision-making and problem-solving.

June 9, 2024 - Watkinsville, GA was recognized today as one of ten All-America City Award winners. The National Civic League presented this honor to recognize Watkinsville's work to actively engage residents in strengthening democracy.

Earlier this year, communities from across the country submitted written applications showcasing their efforts to strengthen democracy through local action and innovation, and the field was narrowed to twenty finalists. This week, these finalist communities traveled to Denver, Colorado, where they connected and shared insights with peers, learned from national thought leaders, and presented their work to a jury of nationally recognized civic leaders. After careful deliberation, the jury selected ten winning communities, including Watkinsville, Georgia.

Watkinsville, Georgia is seeking to rebuild civic bonds by investing in strategies that connect residents to one another and to the city. The Miracle League Ball Field and Playground of Possibilities, developed through collaboration with Extra Special People and community stakeholders, provides inclusive recreational facilities where children of all abilities come together to play in a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment. Additionally, the redevelopment of Rocket Field and the acquisition of Thomas Farm Preserve further enhance community spaces, fostering a sense of belonging and environmental sustainability in Watkinsville.      

Learn more about Watkinsville's winning efforts.

"We are happy to designate Watkinsville as an All-America City. Through their application and presentation, they showed that they are among the best in America at collaborating with residents and diverse stakeholders to tackle local challenges and seize opportunities. They remind us that the foundations of our democracy are strengthened through both individual and collective action."



-Doug Linkhart

President, National Civic League

About the National Civic League

The mission of the National Civic League is to advance civic engagement to create equitable, thriving communities. Founded in 1894, the League is America’s oldest good governance organization, championing many of the democracy innovations of the early 20th Century. Today, the League maintains the Model City Charter, organizes the All-America City Award, publishes the National Civic Review, and supports an extensive national network of local elected, appointed, and civic leaders. The League’s Center for Democracy Innovation works with public officials in the U.S. to understand, test, and disseminate the next generation of civic innovations, which have the potential to make democracy more participatory, equitable, and productive.

Learn more about the National Civic League's All-America City Award.

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