That's the challenge of Give Back's new Civic Engagement committee. Launched in 2006, this initiative offers more committed volunteer opportunities for Give Back members, ways for members to confront some of Greater Cincinnati's larger underlying issues and get involved in making a change.

Give Back Cincinnati (GBC) has traditionally focused on large one-day community service projects in which young professionals can simply show-up, everything is set and ready for them to make an immediate impact in the Cincinnati region. Civic engagement is different. It requires interested members to take a plunge into an issue, giving more of their time and talent, but hopefully reaping greater rewards. It's for those impassioned by children or business or diversity or crime prevention. Those who truly care about a topic and want to learn more and do more.

Already, the committee has hosted successful forums, called Community Conversations, that raise awareness and facilitate involvement with organizations focused on public education and economic development. You can learn more by clicking on the Community Conversations tab.

On November 3, Give Back will team up with the University of Cincinnati and National Underground Freedom Center to provide volunteers for their annual teen leadership conference, titled "Voices of the future: a conference for youth and freedom." Following the conference, 30-40 Give Back volunteers will work with the youth to plan "Give Back-style" service projects for teenage volunteers at schools all over the city. Give Back volunteers will serve as advisors to a Junior Executive Committee (JEC) of youth or as ambassadors between schools and the JEC.

Learn more about the Minding Our Business program by clicking on the logo which will take you to the Minding Our Business page or email MOB@givebackcincinnati.org for more information.

As always, we want to provide the best opportunities for our members. And we want to hear your ideas and feedback about our programs. Please contact Susan Affeld, civic engagement director, at civic@givebackcincinnati.org to share ideas for future civic opportunities.