Our Mission and Vision

During a tumultuous time of protest brought about by the Vietnam War, Steve Janger saw a growing cynicism among youth nationwide about our government and its policies. Driven by a desire to help young people gain a better understanding of government, Steve founded the Close Up Foundation in 1971, the same year the 26th Amendment gave 18-year-olds the right to vote. 

Close Up was built on the idea that young people from all backgrounds need a comprehensive understanding of the democratic process and their responsibilities as citizens. The concept was simple: give students the opportunity to directly engage with the people and institutions that represent our democracy, and they will develop the skills and attitudes they need for a lifetime of active citizenship.  

The first Close Up program in 1971 included 554 students from Florida, Oklahoma, and Texas. Among them was Timothy S. Davis of Tulsa, who was so impacted by the experience that he would return to the Foundation to serve as CEO and president from 2005 until his retirement in 2022. 

Today, Close Up’s civic engagement work reaches students and teachers in more than 2,500 schools nationwide, in all 50 states and the U.S. territories. Our programs and resources help students of all backgrounds and worldviews practice effective citizenship, articulate their own viewpoints, and listen to those of others with tolerance and respect.