Public courtrooms are where government power is most visible—and where the public is most absent. Chicago Documenters set out to change that.
Recent stories from Documenters in Tulsa, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Grand Rapids, and Fresno highlight how people-powered journalism turns everyday civic participation into meaningful local impact.
Find out why we’re overhauling City Bureau’s longest-standing program, and how you can get involved.
As the city looks to sell $1 billion of residents’ traffic debt, City Bureau journalists are creating resources to help you navigate owing Chicago money.
Two new communities are bringing fresh energy to our people-powered journalism movement. Meet the local partners and civic collaborators shaping the next chapter of Documenters.
New Jersey was the first state to treat civic information as a public good. This summer's budget process will decide if that experiment will survive.
Gaining the storytelling skills to make information meaningful and actionable for all
In late April, Documenters across our network gathered virtually to create pod maps and discuss how this tool can help us show up for our communities.
Why we're going all in on the information we need for an affordable city
How the rise of AI made us more confident in our model—not less.
Join a City Bureau and Grist workshop series to learn about extreme weather events, how to plan for them, and ways you can streamline and share information in an emergency.
This accountant-turned-engineer brings people-centered curiosity and problem-solving to our team.
City Bureau is launching our most ambitious strategic plan yet
This values-driven fundraiser is eager to strengthen relationships that will support the long-term impact of our work.
Announcing the permanent appointment of Jody Chong as Executive Director, effective immediately.
This arts educator brings a background in program implementation and initiative management to support the Documenters Network.
The Documenters Network is investigating how federal budget shifts are affecting communities in cities across the United States. Share what you’re seeing with us.
This dedicated community worker helps shape a culture rooted in care and collaboration.
Reflections on why building a values-aligned career starts with knowing your story and trusting your path.
As a Report for America Corps Member, their writing centers civic life, solutions, and holding public officials accountable to their communities with a focus on Chicago’s South and West Sides.