Civic health is a “measure that reflects the degree to which citizens participate in their communities. More precisely, civic health “measures how effectively a community works together to promote the common good, address collective challenges, and improve the quality of life for all its members” (NCoC, 2024).

A State’s civic health influences workforce strength, community vibrancy, and the ability of leaders across sectors to solve problems together. In practical terms, civic health reflects a region’s social capital; in other words, how much trust exists, how easily people collaborate, and how much friction or risk stands in the way of progress. Strong civic health lowers barriers and accelerates growth. Weak civic health does the opposite.

This report serves two purposes. First, it establishes a clear baseline—where Ohio stands today across key indicators of participation, connectedness, and trust. Second, it highlights our unique opportunity. It is not abstract. It is practical: a report on where we are, and here is how we can raise the curve together.

As we note throughout this report, the strength of Ohio’s future depends on its civic health. The real building blocks of a healthy, competitive state aren’t found in Washington, D.C., they are found in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities.

At Leadership Ohio, we view civic health as a performance issue, not a political one. Strengthening civic health is one of the most underleveraged strategies available to improve economic competitiveness, reduce risk, and build stronger, more resilient communities. And, it begins with “US”. This is not about red versus blue. It is about what works.

Take Action in One of 3 Ways with Leadership Ohio

• Participate in an upcoming Civic Health Forum

• Nominate a Civic Health Champion

• Nominate a Candidate for the Signature Class of 2027

A civic health forum is an opportunity to meet like minded individuals who might be frustrated for the current state of Ohio’s civic health but want to join the conversation in leveraging our unique strengths as people who want better. Forum’s will be held in 5 cities in late 2026 and early 2027.

Those cities are: 

• Southwest, Ohio - September 2026

• Southeast, Ohio - October 2026

• Columbus, Ohio - November 2026

• NW, Ohio - January 2027

• Youngstown, Ohio - February 2027

Civic forums vary between cities but generally include a 90-120 minute hosted event including an audience, opening speaker, a panel, and an engaged discussion and among community leaders to follow. If you wish to participate in one of the forums, email us here to be put on our email/update list.

Leadership Ohio believes that while the overall state of Ohio’s civic health can and must improve, there exist innumerable positive examples throughout our great state. To highlight those, we invite you to participate in this initiative.

It celebrates everyday Ohioans who are strengthening their communities through action, not title alone At a time when trust is low and division is high, we believe the future of our state depends on individuals who bring people together, increase civic participation, and solve real challenges across differences.

This initiative shines a light on those leaders—neighbors, volunteers, professionals, and community builders—who are advancing civic health in meaningful and lasting ways. We invite you to help us identify and recognize these individuals by submitting a nomination and sharing the stories of leadership that are making Ohio stronger.

Nominees must be 18 years of age or older to participate. Review the nomination criteria below and select the nomination form. All nominations must be submitted and received by July 15, 2026 for 2026 consideration.

Learn more about Ohio Civic Health Champions