EQUITY & ENGAGEMENT

EQUIPPING JOHNSON COUNTY

to advocate and empower

A commitment to equity and community engagement is central to the mission of UCS—because a thriving community must be an equitable one, where every resident has the opportunity to be heard, valued and supported. UCS advances racial equity and civic engagement as essential pillars of a strong community. Through systems-change partnerships, healing-centered spaces, advocacy training and data-informed dialogue, UCS empowers residents and institutions to create a more just and inclusive Johnson County, ensuring every voice can shape the future.

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION

Racial equity and health equity are deeply connected. We recognize that race is a critical factor in shaping health, education, housing and economic opportunity. Improving the well-being of all residents requires intentional efforts to dismantle systemic barriers—so that race no longer predicts outcomes. UCS centers equity in all we do, from partnerships and community-based research to systems-change efforts and policy development.

In February 2020, the UCS Racial Equity and Inclusion Committee, consisting of experts in the space, identified five strategic practices to integrate into our core work, forming the REI Theory of Action. By adhering to these principles and structuring participation to include as many relevant voices as possible, we hope our work will be relevant, resilient and enduring over time.

For more information about our equity and engagement work, contact Rachel Russell at rachelr@ucsjoco.org.

RACIAL EQUITY IN COMMUNITIES (REIC)

We partner with local jurisdictions to implement culturally responsive, equity-driven systems change. REIC helps move beyond symbolic commitments to racial equity by fostering deep analysis, intentional action and ongoing accountability. REIC supports our capacity to learn, respond and govern in a way that centers racial equity.

2023-2024 REIC Summary Report
2021-2022 REIC Summary Report
2021-2022 REIC Impact Report

RACIAL EQUITY ROUNDTABLES

These learning sessions are built on topics explored through REIC and are open to alumni, community members and organizations. They offer a space for continued dialogue, shared understanding and practical tools to advance equity in community and institutional settings.

Visit our Events page to see upcoming dates or contact Rachel Russell at rachelr@ucsjoco.org.

SISTER’S CIRCLE

A dedicated space for women of color to heal, grow and build meaningful connections. Sister’s Circle events affirm lived experiences and nurture leadership, resilience and solidarity among participants. While this space is intended for women of color, all are welcome to attend.

Visit our Events page to see upcoming dates or contact Rachel Russell at rachelr@ucsjoco.org.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Equity thrives when communities are empowered to participate and lead. Our community engagement efforts equip Johnson County residents with the tools and knowledge to make their voices heard and influence positive change.

Advocacy Academy:

The Advocacy Academy is designed to provide community members and service providers with the knowledge and tools to become effective advocates in their own communities. The Advocacy Academy model supports the belief that everyone can be an advocate—whether residents are interested in reaching out to their elected officials or just want to engage their neighbors around a common concern.

Participants gain:

  • A grounding in advocacy fundamentals and practical advocacy tools
  • Strategies for crafting persuasive messaging using data and storytelling
  • Skills to develop advocacy goals and an actionable advocacy plan

Data Fact Sheets & Community Presentations:


UCS regularly shares its data, research and policy insights with local groups, coalitions and leaders. These presentations provide evidence-based context that informs dialogue, supports equity-centered decisions, and strengthens community action.

Through these efforts and more, UCS is building the capacity for equity and engagement across Johnson County—creating space for communities to lead, heal, and thrive together.

“Working with such a diverse group of people with varying power structures in a safe space was very impactful. The other times I have been involved in equity work was at work and that really changes the dynamic and your ability to speak up.”

REIC PROGRAM PARTICIPANT
2023-2024 COHORT