The generation of teens and young adults that is now coming of age has benefited greatly from the progress of the past forty years.  They are seeing the world through much more fluid lenses than many of us older folks.  They've been able to connect to the world in ways we never could, thanks to the internet.  They don't experience the demographic boxes of identity that we did: increasingly, people are coming of age who are of mixed race, culture and ethnicity.  Even sexual identity and orientation has a far-greater fluidity than many of us appreciate.  They see connections between economic, environmental, and social justice issues. And they are making sacrifices to make a difference.

 

Armed with these experiences, many of this younger generation are also committed to making the world a better place.  They are increasingly using their spring and summer breaks to be of service in their communities and around the world; they are using the internet to make their voices heard; and they are using their presence on campuses to educate each other. 

 

One young Friend shared with us a poem by Walt Whitman:

Here at the William Penn House and through Washington Quaker Workcamps, we are working to develop programs that support and enhance their efforts.  It is a challenge we relish.  We know that these young adults have so benefited from the social movements of the past, and they are poised to continue the work.  It looks and feels different than the past, but is fueled by the same passions for justice and a better world.  We also learn so much from them about the world. 

 

Unfortunately for many young people, especially young Friends in schools and colleges, finances are a barrier.  We strongly encourage and welcome your financial support to remove this barrier and to help nourish the spirit of these folks to make a better world.