Civic Imagination Challenge
Help save our progress by imagining a better future and the steps we can take to get there. The most creative ideas stand a chance to win funding up to $1,000 toward implementing the idea.
Change starts with imagination. Imagine what the brightest timeline looks like. What actions can be taken to bring us closer to that vision?
This challenge gives you the chance to design a fun and captivating project that encourages the community around you (online or in-person) to envision a brighter tomorrow and participate in civic engagement.
One of the appeals of video games is that it allows us to experience alternative visions of what the world can be. It can guide us through dystopias and tragedies that unveil the things we want to fight against. It can show us versions of the world that embody what we’re fighting for - such as being able to own a house. Video games also put us in a role where we are the agents of change - our participation being the catalyst that starts the story. Whether we are quietly thriving in Stardew Valley or fighting for survival in Fallout, we immerse ourselves in these alternate possibilities where our existence affects the world around us.
As such, Fandom Forward would like to invite video game fans to engage in civic imagination - combining your experiences (IRL or in-game) to expand your “capacity to imagine alternatives to current cultural, social, political, or economic conditions” (The Civic Imagination Project).
Quest Details
Who
Anyone with an idea for a project that imagines a better future
You are free to submit ideas as an individual or as a group
(If the individual/group consists of people under 18, an educator or advisor is required)
We highly encourage participation by young people and school groups and project ideas that incorporate video game fandoms.
What
Step 1: Complete the introductory Civic Imagination Lesson Plan .
Step 2: Develop a project idea to submit that responds to the given prompts:
What is your idea?
What is the fandom/video game connection (if any?)
What do you want to accomplish with this idea?
Who will it impact?
Who is on your team/who will help make this happen?
What do you need from Fandom Forward to be successful?
Step 3: Submit a project idea for a chance to win $200-1,000 in funding to implement your idea
Where
Online and nation-wide (in the U.S.)
When
Submission deadline: October 31, 11:59pm ET
Challenge parameters
The idea should focus on issues and remain non-partisan - do not mention or otherwise endorse/oppose specific candidates or political parties.
Fandom Forward is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and cannot “participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements) any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.” (IRS.gov)
The idea should align with Fandom Forward’s values and take our commitments into consideration.
Fandom Forward strives to approach our world’s problems with joy and creativity. Have fun with the creation and planning of this idea.