The aim of the article are reflections on the essence of the concept of social and civic engagement, as well as its implications for the development of civil society. The author focuses on the forms of community activity in local communities where are resolved issues relating directly with residents. The author stresses the importance of informal civic education and in particular the learning process, which takes place in the context of lifelong learning man. In the conclusions the author stated that the social engagement of citizens is highly desirable virtue in civil society. It allows to maintain social equilibrium and is a necessary condition for the existence of democracy. Therefore, efforts of the civic education should be the responsibility of educational institutions, nongovernmental organizations and the state.