Unite 4 Democracy is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening civic culture and our democracy through education, dialogue, and community engagement programs and forums. We develop and produce innovative experiences that engage, educate, and empower people to lead, contribute and participate more fully in our democracy and civic life.
Since our founding, Unite 4 Democracy has been building momentum through community-based programs, events, and partnerships—bringing people together across perspectives to foster understanding, connection, and meaningful engagement.
In 2026, Unite 4 Democracy created and produced, “We the People Speak: Voices of Resistance and Inspiration” and for 2027 developing a Unite 4 Democracy Common Good Summit.
Our Vision
To evolve a vibrant inclusive democracy and civic culture that honors, nurtures, and serves the common good.
Our Mission
To develop and produce innovative educational programs and forums that engage, educate, and empower people to further strengthen our civic culture and democracy for the common good.
Our Shared Values
We strive to support our vision and mission with shared values that includes respect, inclusion, integrity, civility, dignity, and well-being.
About Our Founders
Steve Friedland
Co-Founder
Steve Friedland is the founder and president of Steve Friedland Associates Inc., where he has provided organizational and leadership development consulting, executive coaching, and training to organizations across the United States. His work spans business, government, higher education, and nonprofit sectors.
He is recognized as an early contributor to the development of cultural diversity programs in the United States and has authored and delivered keynote presentations on leadership, inclusion, and building high-performance organizational cultures.
Steve holds a graduate degree in clinical and community psychology and has received recognition for excellence in teaching from the University of California, Davis.
Linda Zimmerman
Co-Founder
Linda Zimmerman has extensive experience serving and supporting nonprofit and community-based organizations, with a focus on board development, fundraising, and volunteer engagement.
She has contributed her time and leadership to a wide range of organizations, including schools, hospice programs, suicide prevention initiatives, and domestic abuse support services. She has also served as a community campaign organizer with V-Day.
Linda is a past Board President of the Network for Women’s Lives and a former Board member of the Domestic Violence Services Network. She also served as Vice President of the International Women’s Club of Boston and co-founded Women’s Speak, a conference focused on empowering women.