Civic participation is essential to strong communities and a healthy democracy. Through voting, volunteerism, advocacy, community leadership, and engagement in civic life, individuals help shape the policies, institutions, and relationships that influence community well-being. Strengthening civic knowledge and creating opportunities for meaningful participation can empower people to address local challenges and contribute to stronger, more connected communities. The Riley Institute works to foster informed engagement, develop civic leaders, and strengthen the capacity of communities across South Carolina to solve problems, build consensus, and improve quality of life.
Only 22.5%
of registered voters participated in the 2025 City of Greenville election.
Source: Greenville County Elections
33,000+ NONPROFITS
call South Carolina home, creating opportunities for residents to volunteer, advocate, lead, and address community challenges.
Source: ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer
More than 70%
of Americans failed a basic civic literacy quiz.
Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
What We Do
We create opportunities for people to engage with the issues shaping their communities and our democracy. Through public forums, leadership development programs, student engagement initiatives, and applied research, we help foster informed participation, civic learning, and community problem-solving.
How We Do It
We bring together diverse perspectives and create spaces for meaningful dialogue, learning, and collaboration. From statewide convenings and public discussions to immersive student experiences and leadership programs, we connect people with ideas, expertise, and one another to strengthen civic understanding and engagement.
Why Trust Us
The Riley Institute carries forward the legacy of Richard W. Riley, whose career in public service was defined by a belief that progress is possible when people come together across differences to address shared challenges. For more than two decades, we have applied that same spirit as a trusted, nonpartisan convener, engaging leaders, students, and communities in meaningful dialogue and civic learning. Through our statewide network and deep relationships across sectors, we help foster the informed participation, collaboration, and leadership that strengthen communities and democracy.
Core Initiatives
The Riley Institute’s emerging leaders programs—including RISE, Advantage Scholars, and Advance Team—help develop the knowledge, skills, and relationships that support lifelong civic engagement. Through hands-on learning experiences, leadership development, and exposure to complex community challenges, students gain a deeper understanding of public issues and the importance of active participation in civic life. Together, these programs help cultivate a new generation of informed leaders committed to strengthening their communities and advancing the public good.
The Riley Institute’s convenings bring together students, community members, and leaders to explore the issues shaping our communities, state, and nation. Through thoughtful dialogue and exposure to diverse perspectives, participants gain a deeper understanding of complex challenges and the role they can play in addressing them. These experiences foster civic learning, encourage constructive engagement across differences, and help build the informed citizenry that strong communities require.
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A healthy democracy depends on informed and engaged citizens, and civic education plays a critical role in preparing them. The Riley Institute’s Teachers of Government program provides middle and high school educators with an immersive learning experience that deepens their understanding of American government, public policy, and civic institutions. By connecting teachers with scholars, policymakers, and real-world examples of public service, the program helps bring civics to life for students and strengthens civic learning in classrooms across South Carolina.
Discover Teachers Of Government
In partnership with Greenville County Schools’ Alternative Education Program, The Riley Institute’s Leadership Intervention program works with students in alternative school settings to help them develop leadership skills, build confidence, and discover their capacity to create positive change. Through mentorship, reflection, and opportunities for personal growth, participants strengthen their sense of agency and connection to their communities. By investing in students who are often overlooked, the program helps cultivate future leaders and lays the foundation for lifelong civic engagement and community involvement.
Learn About Our Partnership
Engagement in Local Politics is Key to Reinvigorating Democracy
In this commentary, RISE Intern Harper Lumpkin ’27 reminds us of the importance of local political engagement.