Governing on the Ground
About Governing on the Ground
Governing on the Ground is an inside look at the complex challenges faced by officials as they strive to strengthen their communities. At times, heartbreaking; at other times, ennobling, it is always informative, and a one-of-a-kind testament to the courage and creativity of county leaders.
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County government is one of the most consequential, least understood levels of government in America. Specific county roles and responsibilities vary widely from state to state— and even within some states— but county governments everywhere play an important role in serving residents and communities.
What is often overlooked is that county governments are institutions comprised of people— county officials who live and work in the communities they lead. They are our neighbors, coworkers, family and friends.
Now, the National Association of Counties, which represents county governments in Washington, D.C. brings you the testimony of 30 officials and offers a glimpse into their efforts to help people and places thrive.
Since the seventeenth century, counties have served as the backbone of a country that longs to control its own local affairs. With the publication of Governing on the Ground: The Past, Present, and Future of County Government, you will finally read how this is accomplished.
Video Highlights
We Are Counties
From urban to rural, large to small, America’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs keep our communities healthy, vibrant and safe. We Are Counties highlights the essential role counties play across every part of community life.
Counties 101
Your introduction to county government. Learn how counties are on the front lines, delivering vital services for our residents.
Achievement Awards
The Achievement Awards is a non-competitive awards program recognizing innovative county government programs. Award-winning programs are featured in NACo content and celebrated at NACo's Annual Conference.
National County Government Month
Held each April, NCGM is an annual celebration of county government. NACo equips counties with template materials, social media graphics, and more resources to kick off the month of recognition.
County Explorer Data
An interactive mapping tool featuring the latest available data for all 3,069 U.S. counties across 14 categories, more than 100 datasets, over 1,000 indicators and more than 10 types of county and state profiles.
The County Landscape Project
Whether examining the organizational structures, financial frameworks, essential services or intergovernmental roles of counties, the project serves as a critical reference for understanding county government at its core.
Counties Work Game & Curriculum
NACo, together with iCivics, has created an online game and curriculum to educate students grade levels 6-12 about the important role and functions of county government.
Governing on the Ground
Governing on the Ground is an inside look at the complex challenges faced by officials as they strive to strengthen their communities. The book features 30 short chapters contributed by county leaders.
The Marvelous Adventures of Countyland
The Marvelous Adventures of Countyland is an experimental publication created with generative artificial intelligence (AI). Its objectives are to showcase the capabilities of AI, to stimulate discussions regarding AI's applications in the public sector, and to inspire young people around the role of county government.
County News
Explore articles from our award-winning County News, the official news publication of NACo.
Operation Green Light for Veterans
During the week leading up to Veterans Day, counties shine a green light to show support for veterans, raise awareness of benefits available to them and call for action on federal policies that support veterans and their families.