Our Crowdfunding Groups
Democracy Camp is an alternative spring break experience designed to empower UC Berkeley changemakers and enhance our democracy. During this four-day intensive program, 21 undergraduate students explore their public service interests and expand their professional toolkit. Now entering its eighth year, Democracy Camp has an impressive track record of propelling students into public service. Be a part of this story — make a gift today and support the next generation of public service leaders!
Democracy Camp is a bootcamp that gives students first-hand exposure to different facets of public service: legislative paths, community organizations, local and state government, legal professions, research, and philanthropy. Students learn directly from guest speakers about the opportunities available in these fields in order to chart their own path to service.
Every year, students take a one-day day field trip to Sacramento, where they meet with elected members and professionals in the state legislature and state agencies, as well as Cal alumni in public service careers in our state capital.
2024 Democracy Camp students outside the California State Capitol building. | Sacramento, CA
2024 Democracy Camp student Sherwin Ho (a senior double-majoring in Molecular Cell Biology and Psychology) with guest speaker John Bauters, former mayor and city councilmember of Emeryville. | Oakland, CAIn addition to meeting with public-service professionals, students participate in skill-building workshops, including networking and resume writing. Participants have the opportunity to put these skills to practice by networking with speakers and exploring public service opportunities on campus and beyond.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Democracy Camp. Through listening to various accomplished speakers from the public service sector, I feel empowered to dedicate myself towards aiding the community and shaping a brighter future. ...Public service isn't limited to particular academic backgrounds or interests — rather, a career in public service is akin to open arms...anybody can pursue (or even switch paths to) a career in public service for a fulfilling journey of impacting the community. With more motivation than ever, I'm excited to continue my academic path at UC Berkeley, ultimately working to serve my community and inspire others."
– Chelsea Kawamura, 2024 Democracy Camp participant
Democracy Camp is made possible by generous gifts from donors. With your help, we can continue to make this program FREE for participants, ensuring that UC Berkeley students have access to professional enrichment opportunities and public service training, regardless of financial circumstances.
This year, we need to raise $5,000 of our $7,500 budget to fund the 2025 Democracy Camp in Berkeley program. (The Institute of Governmental Studies has committed to contributing the remaining balance.) Donations will go towards the cost of learning materials and field trip ground transportation, as well as three meals a day for all Fellows for the duration of the program, to support students who may otherwise experience food insecurity during Spring Break.
We are accepting donations between now and October 31. No gift is too small, and your support will ensure that we are able to provide the best experience possible for UC Berkeley’s motivated changemakers!
These are only estimates, and actual expenditures may vary.Receive a "thank you" from Democracy Camp participant!
Allow us to show our appreciation! For donations of $50 or more, we will post a shoutout on social media, and for donations of $100 or more we will share a "thank you" message from a Democracy Camp alum. For gifts of $1,000 or more, donors will receive a personalized "thank you" video message from a Democracy Camp alum.
Democracy Camp is sponsored by the Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS) and the Robert T. Matsui Center for Politics and Public Service at the University of California, Berkeley.
IGS stands at the forefront of research, teaching, and service in California and American politics and policy. Interdisciplinary and non-partisan, we foster thoughtful discussions of issues across party lines that focus on solutions – not just problems. Our mission is anchored by a belief in the transformational power of public service. To learn more, visit our website.
For donations of $50 or more, we’ll post a shout-out to you or the person of your choosing on our social media channels.
For donations of $100 or more, you will receive a thank you message from a Democracy Camp participant!
For donations of $1,000 or more, you will receive a personalized "thank you" video message!
