Evolution and Change in Civic Engagement Organizations: A Life-Cycle Analysis of the Maine League of Young Voters

Author

Nathan J.R. Grant, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service

Date of Award

2013

Document Type

Capstone

Department

Public Policy and Management

First Advisor

Bruce Clary, Ph.D.

Keywords

Civic engagement, Maine League of Young Voters, Muskie School of Public Service

Abstract

The Maine League of Young Voters is an organization involved in educational and political civic engagement activities in the State of Maine. A membership base consisting of hundreds of grassroots members makes up the base of the organization. By studying the life cycle of the Maine League of Young Voters and comparing it to similar civic engagement organizations, the research here aims to increase the body of knowledge available about how these types of organizations evolve and change. Findings from surveys and interviews indicated that the organization was over-extending the membership, despite a strong grassroots network, and that more delegation of tasks and leadership is necessary. Recommendations are included for improving the ability of the organization to detect and self-assess potential difficulties in the future.

Recommended Citation

Grant, Nathan J.R., "Evolution and Change in Civic Engagement Organizations: A Life-Cycle Analysis of the Maine League of Young Voters" (2013). Muskie School Capstones and Dissertations. 31.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/muskie_capstones/31