Local Focus Network
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Coming soon · Speaker schedule

We educate Canadians about civics to help democracy thrive.

Local Focus tackles civic disengagement at the neighbourhood level—starting in Vancouver and building toward a countrywide model for informed local participation.

36%
of eligible voters cast a ballot in Vancouver’s 2022 civic election—illustrating the need for stronger local civic education and engagement.

A healthy democracy starts locally

“All politics is local.” Local Focus was formed to address civic disengagement at the granular, neighbourhood level—helping people understand how local government works and how to make their voices heard.

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Informed citizens

People who understand local issues are more likely to participate in community decisions and vote in local elections.

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Public discussion

We aim to kick-start stimulating conversations about the local issues that shape everyday life.

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Information gap

We work to fill the civic-affairs coverage gap created by the decline of community-based media.

Our three-pronged approach

Local Focus combines education, accessible media, and community connection to strengthen local democratic participation.

Civic Life Think Tank

A space for research, ideas, and informed discussion about civic life and local governance.

Explainer Videos

Clear, accessible videos that help people understand how local government and civic processes work.

Civic Network

A network that connects residents, organizations, and communities around local civic issues.

Our activities

Local Focus is a project aimed at helping people better understand how local government works—and how they can play a bigger role in shaping the future of their communities.

Action Plan

Civic Think Tank

Research, ideas, and public dialogue on neighbourhood planning, civic participation, and local governance.

Action Plan

Civic News Network

Accessible civic information and coverage designed to help residents follow and understand local issues.

Speaker Series

Neighbourhood Planning

A 12-week public speaker series enriching civic dialogue ahead of Vancouver’s 2026 municipal election.

Watch on YouTube

Follow Local Focus Network for civic explainers, community conversations, and updates on local democracy.

Visit YouTube channel