The Local Lens – Civic Engagement Opportunities
September 16, 2026 | Linda Offerdahl
Civic engagement…the term is often used as a catchphrase for attending community meetings or events, volunteering, donating to worthy causes, serving on government/nonprofit boards, or running for office. Civic engagement is a critical aspect of IVCBA and encompasses “building a thriving community that supports and is supported by our agencies, businesses, nonprofits and residents.”
IVCBA has programs this Fall that encourage civic engagement.
WASHOE TAHOE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY: September 23-34
For the second year, we are partnering with Washoe County to teach a cohort of local residents or workers about the various entities that govern and serve Incline Village and Crystal Bay. A key component is teaching leadership, advocacy, and civil discourse. Our goal is for these informed citizens to find ways to engage positively in the community and help improve our quality of life.
IVGID CANDIDATE FORUM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13
IVCBA partners with IV-CB Community Forum (first and third Fridays at Incline Library) to host a community event for the IVGID candidates. This year, it is on October 13 at 6 pm in the Duffield Theater at Incline High School. It is moderated, and questions are submitted to ensure civil discourse. Thank you to candidates Ryan Brooks, Dave Noble, and Harry Swenson for running!
IVCBA VIP RECEPTION
Twice a year, we bring community leaders together for updates and networking. New service club leaders get a chance to meet leaders in nonprofits and agencies. This helps strengthen our community’s identity.
SHOUT OUT TO INCLINE SCHOOLS, CYMBAL AND IES PTA
Early September brings families to public and private schools to meet teachers and get the new school year off to a good start. It is often hard for working parents to volunteer at school. Thanks to great leadership from teachers and parents, the IES PTA and CYMBAL, the music booster club, both had significant attendance at their meetings this past week. Get engaged with our schools by joining them.
I am convinced that these positive interactions and work on behalf of our nonprofits and families can build trust and help solve problems too big for just one group or organization.
It takes a Village. If you agree with me, please join IVCBA as a community supporter or business!
Kelsi is a native of South Lake Tahoe, where she began her dance training at studios throughout the Lake Tahoe region before continuing her studies with renowned ballet teachers from across the United States. At age 10, she performed in New York City Ballet’s production of The Sleeping Beauty, and as a young teenager was invited to dance principal roles with Oakland Ballet, spending two years performing under Artistic Director Ronn Guidi.At 17, Kelsi received a scholarship to attend the eight-week summer dance program at California Institute of the Arts. Her professional performing experience includes work with Greg Thompson and Mistinguett aboard the Mississippi riverboats and in Reno, as well as performances under Lynne Barth and with Lucky Rabbit Productions.Kelsi has taught at numerous studios throughout California and has since returned to her hometown of South Lake Tahoe, where she continues to share her experience and love of dance with the next generation of students.
Julie Parker Harlan, born in Tahoe and raised in Hawaii, has been teaching and performing professionally for more than 25 years. She earned her BFA from Marymount Manhattan College and later an MFA in Dance from UC Irvine, where she studied under Donald McKayle, Jodie Gates, Evelyn Cisneros, and Molly Lynch.Julie has taught dance at colleges and universities across the country, including UC Irvine, Lamar University, Johns Hopkins University, and Hillsborough College. Her choreography has been presented at colleges and conservatories nationwide, and she served as rehearsal director for Donald McKayle’s Games as part of a National Endowment for the Arts-supported project.
