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The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation
The New Civic Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation
We are suffering from a crisis of belief in our country today. So many people have lost faith in America—in our leaders, institutions, and even one another. The status quo is not working for far too many of us. Our central task today is to meet this historic moment. But how do we grow our belief that we can get things done together—not as Republicans or Democrats or Independents, but as Americans? How do we rebuild trust and reclaim agency?
In this deeply personal manifesto written while crisscrossing the country for his “Enough. Time to Build.” civic campaign, Richard C. Harwood reveals how we can address the fundamental challenges holding us back in America today. We must dedicate ourselves to forging a new civic path that grows our belief that we can move forward amid our real differences. The New Civic Path is a must-read for those who want to spark civic renewal and get our communities and the country moving again.
We are suffering from a crisis of belief in our country today. So many people have lost faith in America—in our leaders, institutions, and even one another. The status quo is not working for far too many of us. Our central task today is to meet this historic moment. But how do we grow our belief that we can get things done together—not as Republicans or Democrats or Independents, but as Americans? How do we rebuild trust and reclaim agency?
In this deeply personal manifesto written while crisscrossing the country for his “Enough. Time to Build.” civic campaign, Richard C. Harwood reveals how we can address the fundamental challenges holding us back in America today. We must dedicate ourselves to forging a new civic path that grows our belief that we can move forward amid our real differences. The New Civic Path is a must-read for those who want to spark civic renewal and get our communities and the country moving again.
- GenresNonfiction
148 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2025
12 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Richard C. Harwood
10 books3 followersRichard C. Harwood, President and Founder of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, is an innovator, author, and speaker. For 35+ years, he has devoted his career to revitalizing the nation’s hardest-hit communities, transforming the world’s largest organizations, and reconnecting institutions to society. He has been recruited to solve some of the most difficult problems of our time, including being called into Newtown, CT after the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. He has appeared in numerous national media outlets and has written nine books, scores of articles, and groundbreaking reports like Civic Virus: Why Polarization is a Misdiagnosis.
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May 19, 2025
The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation provides critical insights on how divided communities can come together and create action around shared aspirations. The Harwood Institute has worked with communities in all 50 states and in several countries for almost forty years. This book shares details on how to improve civic faith and make a difference.
One of the key learnings for me was the phrase, "It's more like physics than civics." Physics is about how to move things in a different direction. Energy creates movement. Movement, over time, creates momentum. By working together and starting with small actions, a community can create movement which leads to momentum.
Rich Harwood, founder of The Harwood Institute, shares lessons he has learned from a wide variety of communities as well as the framework he and his team use to help communities bridge divides and come together to create a new future.
I highly recommend this book as well as others by Rich Harwood:Stepping Forward: A Positive, Practical Path to Transform Our Communities and Our Lives, Unleashed: A Proven Way Communities Can Spread Change and Make Hope Real for All, The Work of Hope: How Individuals and Organizations Can Authentically Do Good, Why We're Here, Hope Unraveled: The People's Retreat and Our Way Back, and The Little Field Guide for Sparking Community-Led Change: 10 Essential Questions to Build Civic Confidence and Momentum.
One of the key learnings for me was the phrase, "It's more like physics than civics." Physics is about how to move things in a different direction. Energy creates movement. Movement, over time, creates momentum. By working together and starting with small actions, a community can create movement which leads to momentum.
Rich Harwood, founder of The Harwood Institute, shares lessons he has learned from a wide variety of communities as well as the framework he and his team use to help communities bridge divides and come together to create a new future.
I highly recommend this book as well as others by Rich Harwood:Stepping Forward: A Positive, Practical Path to Transform Our Communities and Our Lives, Unleashed: A Proven Way Communities Can Spread Change and Make Hope Real for All, The Work of Hope: How Individuals and Organizations Can Authentically Do Good, Why We're Here, Hope Unraveled: The People's Retreat and Our Way Back, and The Little Field Guide for Sparking Community-Led Change: 10 Essential Questions to Build Civic Confidence and Momentum.
June 5, 2025
“If you save one life, you are placing a clear value on the dignity of others.”
I want to thank Goodreads Friend Sharon Orloff for making me aware of this book. I wouldn’t have known about it, if it weren’t for her. This small book was what I really needed after finding myself in a funk about today’s politics. It was certainly a breath of fresh air to read someone who has not only a positive outlook about life and community but about humanity as a whole.
The author’s sub-title was “Restoring our Belief in One Another and Our Nation – A Manifesto.” And, in many ways, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful by this book’s message. What could he say that could give any of us a sense that this could be possible?
As I read, I was energized by the author’s many ideas. Mostly, he spoke my truth when he said…
“There is too much division, hatred, bigotry, and mistrust, and a lack of hope. If the 2024 election proved anything, it is this:
The status quo is not working for far too many of us. And that’s regardless of whom you may have voted for.”
Exactly. We needed a way out of the mire. His question wrung true for me when he asked…
“How can we create a path forward where we tap into our innate goodness?”
The author shared that, the first step forward was for us to build community. In our local communities. Where we can see and hear one another. This is the place to begin to take action and restore a sense of possibility and hope. And, certainly to do so is to be an “us.” And, to see ourselves as “agents of hope.” Where we create a “deeper sense of connection, belonging, and dignity.”
It has become particularly clear how difficult this may be to imagine when there is so little civility in our world today. We seem so divided between one side and another. Where people are questioning loyalties as opposed to allowing people to just be whomever they choose to be. The author suggests that…
“…the problem today is that unending noise and confusion in our public lives squeeze out room for even a relatively healthy exchange of ideas. Instead, many of us have been forced into fight-or-flight mode, resulting in a dangerous vacuum in our society where the loudest and most divisive voices are now dominating our public discourse.”
The author is asking us to instead come together – amid differences – and choose to build on those differences – to care for our communities. That in all reality we can recognize how much – we actually need each other. And, when we realize this – we can accomplish much, together.
As the author explains his process, it is clear he is showing a path forward through shifting our thinking from “getting together’ to actually “working together.” He sees “creating change is a journey and belief is the fuel for that journey.”
It is interesting how the author argues and inspires readers to believe in possibilities. Which makes this truly a manifesto for good towards positive change in our communities. This short book, was powerful and impactful. I highly recommend it for everyone to read.
For anybody interested, this is truly a movement worth exploring. Go to www.theharwoodinstitute.org/newcivicpath to access resources to guide your own community.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
I want to thank Goodreads Friend Sharon Orloff for making me aware of this book. I wouldn’t have known about it, if it weren’t for her. This small book was what I really needed after finding myself in a funk about today’s politics. It was certainly a breath of fresh air to read someone who has not only a positive outlook about life and community but about humanity as a whole.
The author’s sub-title was “Restoring our Belief in One Another and Our Nation – A Manifesto.” And, in many ways, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful by this book’s message. What could he say that could give any of us a sense that this could be possible?
As I read, I was energized by the author’s many ideas. Mostly, he spoke my truth when he said…
“There is too much division, hatred, bigotry, and mistrust, and a lack of hope. If the 2024 election proved anything, it is this:
The status quo is not working for far too many of us. And that’s regardless of whom you may have voted for.”
Exactly. We needed a way out of the mire. His question wrung true for me when he asked…
“How can we create a path forward where we tap into our innate goodness?”
The author shared that, the first step forward was for us to build community. In our local communities. Where we can see and hear one another. This is the place to begin to take action and restore a sense of possibility and hope. And, certainly to do so is to be an “us.” And, to see ourselves as “agents of hope.” Where we create a “deeper sense of connection, belonging, and dignity.”
It has become particularly clear how difficult this may be to imagine when there is so little civility in our world today. We seem so divided between one side and another. Where people are questioning loyalties as opposed to allowing people to just be whomever they choose to be. The author suggests that…
“…the problem today is that unending noise and confusion in our public lives squeeze out room for even a relatively healthy exchange of ideas. Instead, many of us have been forced into fight-or-flight mode, resulting in a dangerous vacuum in our society where the loudest and most divisive voices are now dominating our public discourse.”
The author is asking us to instead come together – amid differences – and choose to build on those differences – to care for our communities. That in all reality we can recognize how much – we actually need each other. And, when we realize this – we can accomplish much, together.
As the author explains his process, it is clear he is showing a path forward through shifting our thinking from “getting together’ to actually “working together.” He sees “creating change is a journey and belief is the fuel for that journey.”
It is interesting how the author argues and inspires readers to believe in possibilities. Which makes this truly a manifesto for good towards positive change in our communities. This short book, was powerful and impactful. I highly recommend it for everyone to read.
For anybody interested, this is truly a movement worth exploring. Go to www.theharwoodinstitute.org/newcivicpath to access resources to guide your own community.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
July 20, 2025
I really need to catch up on my reviews!
May 15, 2025
Book Review: The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation by Richard C. Harwood
The New Civic Path is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of America’s fractured civic landscape, offering a blueprint for rebuilding trust and collective purpose. Harwood, a seasoned civic leader, combines rigorous analysis with hopeful pragmatism, arguing that meaningful change begins with reconnecting to shared values and local action.
Thesis & Relevance
Harwood confronts America’s crisis of belief—in institutions, each other, and the future—head-on. His central premise is compelling: restoring civic health requires moving beyond polarization to rediscover common ground. The book excels in diagnosing systemic challenges while avoiding partisan traps, making it essential reading for our divided era.
Structure & Approach
The narrative balances theory with actionable steps, organized around Harwood’s “Time to Build” framework. Case studies from communities like Owensboro, KY (featured in his Institute’s work) ground abstract ideas in real-world success. Some sections lean heavily on organizational jargon, but the core message remains accessible.
Writing Style & Impact
Harwood’s prose is direct and motivational, blending data-driven insights with storytelling. While not literary in the traditional sense, his clarity of purpose and urgency resonate. The tone avoids cynicism, instead fostering a sense of agency—a rarity in contemporary civic discourse.
Themes & Takeaways
Key themes include:
-The power of “small bets” (local, incremental change)
-Redefining leadership as rooted in listening
-Replacing transactional politics with relational trust
-The closing chapters on “stepping forward” inspire readers to engage without prescribing one-size-fits-all solutions.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Fresh synthesis of civic theory and practice.
Practicality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Exceptionally actionable for leaders and citizens.
Narrative Flow: ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5) – Occasionally dense but purpose-driven.
Relevance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Vital for current societal challenges.
Emotional Resonance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Hopeful without being naive.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) – A galvanizing call to rebuild civic life from the ground up. Harwood’s blend of idealism and pragmatism makes this a standout in its genre.
Who Should Read It?
-Community organizers and local leaders
-Readers seeking antidotes to polarization
-Fans of Bowling Alone or The Sum of Us
-Anyone weary of political gridlock
Who Might Not Love It?
-Those preferring academic rigor over practitioner perspectives
-Readers seeking partisan solutions
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Richard C. Harwood, for providing an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
The New Civic Path is a timely and thought-provoking exploration of America’s fractured civic landscape, offering a blueprint for rebuilding trust and collective purpose. Harwood, a seasoned civic leader, combines rigorous analysis with hopeful pragmatism, arguing that meaningful change begins with reconnecting to shared values and local action.
Thesis & Relevance
Harwood confronts America’s crisis of belief—in institutions, each other, and the future—head-on. His central premise is compelling: restoring civic health requires moving beyond polarization to rediscover common ground. The book excels in diagnosing systemic challenges while avoiding partisan traps, making it essential reading for our divided era.
Structure & Approach
The narrative balances theory with actionable steps, organized around Harwood’s “Time to Build” framework. Case studies from communities like Owensboro, KY (featured in his Institute’s work) ground abstract ideas in real-world success. Some sections lean heavily on organizational jargon, but the core message remains accessible.
Writing Style & Impact
Harwood’s prose is direct and motivational, blending data-driven insights with storytelling. While not literary in the traditional sense, his clarity of purpose and urgency resonate. The tone avoids cynicism, instead fostering a sense of agency—a rarity in contemporary civic discourse.
Themes & Takeaways
Key themes include:
-The power of “small bets” (local, incremental change)
-Redefining leadership as rooted in listening
-Replacing transactional politics with relational trust
-The closing chapters on “stepping forward” inspire readers to engage without prescribing one-size-fits-all solutions.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Fresh synthesis of civic theory and practice.
Practicality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Exceptionally actionable for leaders and citizens.
Narrative Flow: ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5) – Occasionally dense but purpose-driven.
Relevance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Vital for current societal challenges.
Emotional Resonance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Hopeful without being naive.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) – A galvanizing call to rebuild civic life from the ground up. Harwood’s blend of idealism and pragmatism makes this a standout in its genre.
Who Should Read It?
-Community organizers and local leaders
-Readers seeking antidotes to polarization
-Fans of Bowling Alone or The Sum of Us
-Anyone weary of political gridlock
Who Might Not Love It?
-Those preferring academic rigor over practitioner perspectives
-Readers seeking partisan solutions
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Richard C. Harwood, for providing an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2025
Rebuilding America, One Community at a Time
Richard C. Harwood’s The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation offers a compelling manifesto for addressing America’s crisis of belief through grassroots civic engagement. Harwood argues that the nation’s deep divisions, mistrust, and pervasive sense of despair—exacerbated by political polarization, cultural wars, and collective grief—require a new approach rooted in local communities. Rather than relying on top-down political solutions, he proposes a “new civic path” that emphasizes authentic hope, shared aspirations, and collective action to rebuild trust and agency. Drawing from his 2023–2024 “Enough. Time to Build” campaign, Harwood illustrates this path with stories from diverse communities like Reading, PA, Flint, MI, and Selma, AL, where residents have transcended divides to address local challenges. His purpose is clear: to inspire Americans to reclaim the public square from divisive voices and foster a patriotism of devotion that prioritizes communal redemption over partisan victories.
Harwood’s credentials as the founder of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, with nearly four decades of experience in community revitalization across all 50 states, lend significant authority to his arguments. His hands-on work in places like Newtown, CT, post-Sandy Hook, and economically distressed cities like Flint demonstrates a deep understanding of civic dynamics. The book relies heavily on anecdotal evidence from his campaign and prior projects, supported by quotes from community leaders and residents. While these narratives are vivid and persuasive, the absence of quantitative data or academic references may limit its appeal for readers seeking rigorous empirical support. Nonetheless, the lived experiences of communities provide a robust foundation for Harwood’s claims about the power of local action.
The writing style is accessible, impassioned, and conversational, making complex ideas about civic culture approachable for a broad audience. Harwood’s use of metaphors—like grief as a “weighted blanket” or the circular path of healing—adds emotional resonance, though occasional repetition of key phrases, such as “authentic hope,” can feel heavy-handed. The book’s structure, with chapters progressing from diagnosing societal ills to proposing actionable solutions, ensures clarity and maintains engagement through relatable stories and practical insights.
The book’s strengths lie in its optimistic yet grounded vision and its emphasis on human connection as a antidote to division. Harwood’s focus on “starting small to go big” offers a practical framework for community leaders, and his nuanced discussion of patriotism as devotion rather than blind allegiance is a refreshing counterpoint to polarized rhetoric. However, the book’s reliance on narrative over systemic analysis may leave readers wanting deeper exploration of structural barriers, such as economic inequality or institutional corruption, which Harwood acknowledges but does not fully dissect.
The New Civic Path is timely, addressing a nation grappling with post-2024 election fatigue and ongoing cultural divides. It stands out in the genre of civic engagement literature, complementing works like Robert D. Putnam’s Bowling Alone but with a more action-oriented, hopeful tone compared to Putnam’s diagnostic approach. Compared to Harwood’s earlier Stepping Forward, this book feels more urgent and manifesto-driven, reflecting the current moment’s stakes.
Overall, The New Civic Path succeeds as an inspiring call to action for community leaders, activists, and citizens seeking to rebuild trust locally. Its practical optimism and focus on human agency make it a valuable read for those invested in civic renewal, though scholars may desire more analytical depth. Highly recommended for anyone eager to move beyond despair and contribute to a more hopeful America.
Richard C. Harwood’s The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation offers a compelling manifesto for addressing America’s crisis of belief through grassroots civic engagement. Harwood argues that the nation’s deep divisions, mistrust, and pervasive sense of despair—exacerbated by political polarization, cultural wars, and collective grief—require a new approach rooted in local communities. Rather than relying on top-down political solutions, he proposes a “new civic path” that emphasizes authentic hope, shared aspirations, and collective action to rebuild trust and agency. Drawing from his 2023–2024 “Enough. Time to Build” campaign, Harwood illustrates this path with stories from diverse communities like Reading, PA, Flint, MI, and Selma, AL, where residents have transcended divides to address local challenges. His purpose is clear: to inspire Americans to reclaim the public square from divisive voices and foster a patriotism of devotion that prioritizes communal redemption over partisan victories.
Harwood’s credentials as the founder of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, with nearly four decades of experience in community revitalization across all 50 states, lend significant authority to his arguments. His hands-on work in places like Newtown, CT, post-Sandy Hook, and economically distressed cities like Flint demonstrates a deep understanding of civic dynamics. The book relies heavily on anecdotal evidence from his campaign and prior projects, supported by quotes from community leaders and residents. While these narratives are vivid and persuasive, the absence of quantitative data or academic references may limit its appeal for readers seeking rigorous empirical support. Nonetheless, the lived experiences of communities provide a robust foundation for Harwood’s claims about the power of local action.
The writing style is accessible, impassioned, and conversational, making complex ideas about civic culture approachable for a broad audience. Harwood’s use of metaphors—like grief as a “weighted blanket” or the circular path of healing—adds emotional resonance, though occasional repetition of key phrases, such as “authentic hope,” can feel heavy-handed. The book’s structure, with chapters progressing from diagnosing societal ills to proposing actionable solutions, ensures clarity and maintains engagement through relatable stories and practical insights.
The book’s strengths lie in its optimistic yet grounded vision and its emphasis on human connection as a antidote to division. Harwood’s focus on “starting small to go big” offers a practical framework for community leaders, and his nuanced discussion of patriotism as devotion rather than blind allegiance is a refreshing counterpoint to polarized rhetoric. However, the book’s reliance on narrative over systemic analysis may leave readers wanting deeper exploration of structural barriers, such as economic inequality or institutional corruption, which Harwood acknowledges but does not fully dissect.
The New Civic Path is timely, addressing a nation grappling with post-2024 election fatigue and ongoing cultural divides. It stands out in the genre of civic engagement literature, complementing works like Robert D. Putnam’s Bowling Alone but with a more action-oriented, hopeful tone compared to Putnam’s diagnostic approach. Compared to Harwood’s earlier Stepping Forward, this book feels more urgent and manifesto-driven, reflecting the current moment’s stakes.
Overall, The New Civic Path succeeds as an inspiring call to action for community leaders, activists, and citizens seeking to rebuild trust locally. Its practical optimism and focus on human agency make it a valuable read for those invested in civic renewal, though scholars may desire more analytical depth. Highly recommended for anyone eager to move beyond despair and contribute to a more hopeful America.
September 27, 2025
I highly recommend Richard Harwood’s The New Civic Path, which outlines a viable alternative to the divisive politics that have become all too familiar in contemporary America. Harwood reminds us that the American spirit is one of “builders, doers, and innovators” and argues brilliantly that what we lack right now as a nation is belief in ourselves and our ability to create a future that reflects our shared aspirations. This book offers much needed inspiration to leaders in all sectors and ordinary citizens alike. I wholeheartedly agree that we must challenge the status quo by becoming “agents of hope” in our local communities who do the hard work of building trust in spite of differences that exist among us.
Harwood sets realistic expectations for those of us who are eager to shift from “getting together” to “working together” by noting the new civic path is a catalyst and not a panacea for reversing our broken national politics and culture. He also anticipates some readers will be skeptical of this approach and skillfully tackles critiques, doubts, and objections about the new civic path head on rather than brushes them aside. Regardless of whether you embrace the new civic path or not, it’s worth your time to read the entire book. Harwood presents compelling arguments for why we must either adopt or abandon specific mindsets and behaviors to free ourselves from the fight-or-flight response so many of us have become accustomed to because the political climate in our nation is increasingly hostile.
The New Civic Path was published for such a time as this. Harwood’s thoughtful insights are worthy of a multigenerational audience that is longing for a greater sense of connection, belonging, and dignity. I think readers of all ages and backgrounds will find this book thought provoking and empowering. Hopefully, among them there is a critical mass of individuals who are eager to engage in intentional action that aims to move our local communities and nation forward.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Harwood sets realistic expectations for those of us who are eager to shift from “getting together” to “working together” by noting the new civic path is a catalyst and not a panacea for reversing our broken national politics and culture. He also anticipates some readers will be skeptical of this approach and skillfully tackles critiques, doubts, and objections about the new civic path head on rather than brushes them aside. Regardless of whether you embrace the new civic path or not, it’s worth your time to read the entire book. Harwood presents compelling arguments for why we must either adopt or abandon specific mindsets and behaviors to free ourselves from the fight-or-flight response so many of us have become accustomed to because the political climate in our nation is increasingly hostile.
The New Civic Path was published for such a time as this. Harwood’s thoughtful insights are worthy of a multigenerational audience that is longing for a greater sense of connection, belonging, and dignity. I think readers of all ages and backgrounds will find this book thought provoking and empowering. Hopefully, among them there is a critical mass of individuals who are eager to engage in intentional action that aims to move our local communities and nation forward.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 14, 2025
This book couldn’t have arrived at a better time. The New Civic Path is an energizing, much needed guide for anyone who cares about rebuilding trust, repairing broken systems, and nurturing real community connection. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience as a public servant, the author makes the case for a healthier, more empathetic civic culture – one grounded in respect, lived experience, and showing up for each other.
I especially appreciated the book’s focus on “public capital” (a powerful take on social capital) and how the author draws on cross-regional insights, case studies, and data to explore what’s working – and what’s not – in our shared civic lives. There’s a strong emphasis on nonpartisan collaboration, empathy-driven leadership, and the deep value of meeting people where they are.
As someone working in sociology and justice, these ideas hit home. We are living through a time of serious division, and this book doesn’t shy away from that. But it also doesn’t wallow in it – instead, it offers a path forward that is realistic, compassionate, and incredibly actionable. I’ve already recommended this to friends, family, and colleagues. If you care about your community, if you're feeling overwhelmed by polarization, or if you're just looking for a little hope and direction – read this. It matters.
Thank you to Studio Books and BookSirens for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
I especially appreciated the book’s focus on “public capital” (a powerful take on social capital) and how the author draws on cross-regional insights, case studies, and data to explore what’s working – and what’s not – in our shared civic lives. There’s a strong emphasis on nonpartisan collaboration, empathy-driven leadership, and the deep value of meeting people where they are.
As someone working in sociology and justice, these ideas hit home. We are living through a time of serious division, and this book doesn’t shy away from that. But it also doesn’t wallow in it – instead, it offers a path forward that is realistic, compassionate, and incredibly actionable. I’ve already recommended this to friends, family, and colleagues. If you care about your community, if you're feeling overwhelmed by polarization, or if you're just looking for a little hope and direction – read this. It matters.
Thank you to Studio Books and BookSirens for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2025
You’d have to be pretty certain about your thesis to propose that right now, yes, right now there is a path forward for communities working to affect change. Except Rich Harwood has decades of experience to draw on and The New Civic Path lays out the steps to percolate change that sticks even on seemingly intractable issues. New ways of talking to one another is not the only answer, but a necessary start in building trust and reclaiming patriotism. Harwood is candid about navigating the process of doing the work, staying true to sustainable progress and being a candid friend when things inevitably take longer than we’d like.
The New Civic Path is for you if you are looking for actionable ways to move forward on a local level and the good news is you don’t need to have a professional title or pulpit to start from. I began this book with skepticism that surely we were at a point of entrenchment and ended feeling motivated that our current environment would be the catalyst for many more people to lean into their communities.
The New Civic Path is for you if you are looking for actionable ways to move forward on a local level and the good news is you don’t need to have a professional title or pulpit to start from. I began this book with skepticism that surely we were at a point of entrenchment and ended feeling motivated that our current environment would be the catalyst for many more people to lean into their communities.
May 13, 2025
This is an inspiring and motivating read for any American looking for a way to help our country through its present crisis. It starts at the local level, with civic faith and a turned outward stance that acts on what's important to people and improves civic culture. Each of us can play a role in building and strengthening our local communities, but the great thing is we can't do it alone. As Harwood puts it, we were meant to go together, but in an authentic way that doesn't gloss over differences but starts by discerning shared aspirations and what's doable and practical. Reading, PA is the poster child for this approach, and to see where they started and how far they've come is a blueprint for other communities as well. It's a new path well worth taking.
May 15, 2025
The New Civic Path by Rich Harwood really spoke to me. As someone who’s been feeling disheartened by the state of public life and disconnected from my own community, this book was exactly what I needed. Harwood doesn’t just talk about civic engagement in theory—he offers a clear, honest, and deeply human way forward. His stories and insights made me reflect on how I show up in my own community, and gave me real tools and encouragement to start making a difference. It’s not flashy or idealistic; it’s grounded, practical, and full of heart. I walked away feeling more hopeful, more connected, and more committed to being part of the solution.
May 18, 2025
Conversation around civics is exactly what we need right now. Empowering people with the confidence and tools to intentionally shape their communities is what we need right now. Rich Harwood knows this because he has dedicated his life to understanding the underlying problems in our communities and helping people work together to find solutions. I'm so glad he wrote The New Civic Path. It is the book we need right now.
May 23, 2025
As a fellow proselytizer for democracy, I highly recommend The New Civic Path by Rich Harwood. We the people, in our communities and relationships need to come together to act on our communities' and our nation's behaves. We need to believe in each other, talk and listen to each other and act, together, on our shared aspirations in our communities. Read this book and learn how to step boldly onto this "new civic path." Invite your friends and family to join you. We need all y'all.
May 13, 2025
Thanks to Rich Harwood for providing a clear and distinct path forward as we face a crisis of belief in one another and our nation. The way forward is outlined for us in clear, concise, and actionable ways that restore real hope and civic faith. The choice is ours to embark on this path together—a quick read with a clear impact. Highly recommend.
May 15, 2025
This book couldn’t have come at a more important time. It puts into words what so many of us have been feeling but haven’t known how to say. It’s honest, hopeful, and grounded. Rich doesn’t just talk about what’s wrong—he shows us how we can move forward, together. If you’ve been searching for something that feels real and gives you a sense of direction, read this.
October 2, 2025
It doesn’t matter who you voted for (in any election). It doesn’t even matter if you voted. But if you KNOW in your heart there has got to be a better way, and you want to see change, READ this manifesto ! I was so glad to be given the NetGalley. I feel refreshed after reading, especially having seen my personality reflected in the pages, left me feeling more connected.
May 5, 2025
A great, snappy read about how we might rejuvenate our shared civic lives. At a time when so much can feel hopeless, this book provides a jolt of hope that we can be better and do better as individuals and as entire communities in this country. Definitely recommend!
May 6, 2025
An inspired and inspiring look at what it will take to move our communities and country forward. This book is a practical must-read for anyone who believes in the possibility of a more hopeful future and is willing to do the work to create it.
May 8, 2025
It's easy to feel hopeless in America today but this book actually made me feel hopeful for the future. It helped me realize the possibilities for creating meaningful change by starting in our local communities.
May 13, 2025
This book is a thoughtful invitation to step off the sidelines and into the heartbeat of your community. With clear guidance and motivating stories, it empowers readers to take meaningful action, no matter where they’re starting from. A must-read for anyone ready to turn concern into contribution.
May 13, 2025
A great read specially at such a time when we all are thinking it is difficult/not possible at all to believe in one another and come together to create change in our communities. Sparks hope and encourages us to push forward!!
November 19, 2025
The author makes a good case for citizens to come together in order to rebuild the fabric civic of our civil life. I agree with him. This is an important little book. I will be sharing it.
Recommended.
Recommended.
May 9, 2025
Don't let this book's brevity fool you - it is a profound and hopeful manifesto about how we can move forward in this country, community by community. I only wish this were taught in classrooms.
May 15, 2025
A quick read that'll restore hope and inspire action!!
May 17, 2025
Such a great read! I loved how Harwood describes his views and civic ideas.
May 30, 2025
As someone actively doing the Harwood work, The New Civic Path felt like a rallying cry and roadmap all in one. Rich doesn't just talk about hope, he gives us the tolls to build it together.
August 18, 2025
Good book! Nice and short. Not necessarily ground-breaking but some nice encouragement to work together and take action in our communities.
July 15, 2025
This manifesto offers an inspirational perspective on catalyzing change in our communities. Throughout the past year, I have become increasingly disillusioned by the political sphere, a sentiment I know I share with many of my friends and peers. The New Civic Path alters the narrative of creating change by emphasizing the restoration of community connection and empathy. I appreciate that Harwood doesn't insist that we must ignore our differences, but rather that we should prioritize our shared goals, using these as a foundation for local impact. Definitely recommend, especially for those pursuing a career in civic service.
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