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The University of Virginia's Center for Politics was founded in 1998 by professor and political analyst Larry J. Sabato to put into practice his belief that "Politics is a good thing!" The Center for Politics is a nonpartisan organization based in Charlottesville, Virginia, which seeks to increase civic knowledge and involvement among all citizens. The Center for Politics is part of the University of Virginia and draws its funding from a variety of public and private sources. It has its own dedicated staff and building, operating out of historic Montesano, once owned by U.S. Senator Thomas S. Martin.

The Center for Politics's main focus is civic education and engagement, exemplified by its flagship program, the Youth Leadership Initiative. The Youth Leadership Initiative provides a free technology-based curriculum of civics materials to K-12 schools across the country and around the world, and conducts the largest all-student mock election in the nation each November.

The Center for Politics also publishes Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball, a source of comprehensive election analysis which has been recognized as providing the most accurate electoral predictions in the country on its website and through a free weekly e-mail.

Additionally, the Center for Politics organizes conferences and programs, publishes books and reports, and supports and promotes college student civic education through internships, voter registration drives, and on-campus speakers.

Mission
The Center for Politics was founded to "promote the value of politics and the importance of civic engagement." By improving the political process and citizens' interaction with it, the Center for Politics strives to improve the functioning of government itself. In addition, the mission includes three goals:


 * Encourage citizens to actively participate in the political process and government
 * Evaluate and promote the best practices in civic education for students of all ages
 * Educate citizens through the Center's comprehensive research, programs, and publications

Conferences
American Democracy Conference

Virginia Political History Conference
 * Documentaries

National Constitutional Convention
 * Questioning the Constitution

Publications
Larry J. Sabato books

Political Challenges Series (Atkinson, Garson, etc...)

Virginia Votes

National Campaign for Political and Civic Engagement
Voter Registration

Awards for Civic Excellence

Internship program