RENO — Area residents who want to participate in the fall session of the Reno Citizens Institute (RCI) provided by the city of Reno must register by Friday.

The 10 fall sessions are scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 7, with each being held on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. (some session begin at 5:30 p.m.) at various city facilities. Citizens will have a chance to meet elected officials, department heads and city staff to learn how local government works.

RCI offers a chance to gain valuable insight into city operations that participants can use to create change in their neighborhood and the community to help improve their quality of life. It also offers a learning opportunity for those who want to serve on one of the city’s many advisory boards or are interested in running for office.

The free 10-week RCI program is held twice a year and limited to 25 participants. Participants must be at least 18 years old and work or reside in the Truckee Meadows. A minimal background check of applicants is required primarily to make sure participants do not have outstanding warrants.

Applications for the fall session and more information about the program are available online at www.reno.gov or by calling Reno Direct at 334-4636.