DemocracyReady NY is a multigenerational, statewide, nonpartisan coalition committed to preparing all New York students for civic participation.

The Coalition aims to:

- Raise awareness about every student’s right under the state constitution to an education that prepares them for civic participation.

- Strengthen policy, practice, and investment to help students develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions they need to engage effectively in civic and political life, today and in the future. 

- Eliminate inequities in access to P-12 civic learning opportunities.

- Mobilize youth, parents/guardians, educators, researchers, advocates, attorneys, youth-development specialists, and philanthropy to work collectively toward these goals.

- DemocracyReady NY is the New York state affiliate of the CivXNow national coalition, a program of iCivics.

Founded in 2018 at the Center for Educational Equity at Teachers College, Columbia University, DemocracyReady NY became an independent organization in 2025.

DemocracyReady NY is a nonprofit project of Build Up Inc. (BUI)., a 501(c)3 public charity.

DemocracyReady NY

Jessica R. Wolff

This department focuses on strategic direction and organizational governance.

Executive Leadership

This department focuses on fostering relationships and programs for youth participation and involvement.

DemocracyReady NY

Org chart

Teams

Executive Leadership

Youth Engagement

Offices