Change is a word we hear a lot of these days, especially in an election year.  It may seem to be overused and often hollow, but it also speaks volumes for what is going on in the world.  Unlike anything we have seen in decades, youth and young adults are looking for ways to make a difference and to make the world a better place. 

 

Here at The William Penn House, it has always been a part of our mission ot create opportunities for youth to learn, reflect, serve and make a difference.  We have been encouraged by the increasing activities and interest from youth groups and young adults from around the world to participate in new and exciting ways.  Rather than taking school breaks in Florida and Arizona, these folks are increasingly spending their breaks in service.  There is an openness to not only learning about issues, but also to see how issues are interconnected and how they can use energy to make a difference.  Because of technology, this generation connects to the world and makes connections in the world that were not possible ten years ago.  Washington DC is a place that can serve to turn these connections and experiences to action.  We are increasingly developing programs that connect the poverty, environmental and social injustices in this city with the same issues on a global level as they are impacted by politics and policies that flow through this city.  It is a way for participants to also learn about the various ways to make a difference from picking up a hammer to hammering home a point about peace and justice through advocacy, and everything in between. 

 

One of our goals is to expand our ability to offer these programs to more youth groups.  Youth groups are energized, but often only the youth groups with wealth find themselves able to participate.  It is a scenario that tends to perpetuate the very economic injustice that we would like to change.  We welcome and encourage those with the gift of wealth to consider using that gift to help others use their gifts to change the world.