Giving Compass' Take:

· Medium touches on disconnected youths and the pivotal role they play in the future of America. In an attempt to lower future numbers and turn lives around, civic services are being emphasized everywhere. 

· How can civic services help lower the number of disconnected youths in America?

· Read more about civic engagement and societal growth.

Bryan was in 7th grade when he left home with his little brother to escape abusive, drug-using adults. He dropped out of school, and took on the responsibility of ensuring his brother stayed safe and received his education. Bryan and his brother had been surviving on the street together for three years when I met him. He had just enrolled in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a modern day version of the pre-World War II U.S. jobs program that provided income and job training to participants who also committed to much-needed service to the country.

During the program, Bryan obtained his high school graduation equivalency, enrolled in college, became an exceptional role model and community leader, and began working as a heavy equipment operator after graduation. He came to think of the CCC as his family, and when he married, it was with the CCC Camp Manager, Walt, as his best man.

Civic engagement is not the only answer to the challenges facing disconnected youth and young adults, but it represents a significant piece of the puzzle. Enhancing community-based work already underway utilizing civic engagement principles and practices will empower communities to change from within, and embrace health and wellness holistically to support the young people at risk of coming to school unprepared or missing it altogether. This commitment will also enable communities to enhance school reform and commit to re-engaging students who are out of school. Shifting our community culture to embrace and support all of our young people will make the difference they need to thrive. It’s a responsibility, but also an extraordinary opportunity; ultimately we are the beneficiaries of young people who are engaged and active community members.

Read the full article about new opportunities for young people by Sally Prouty at Medium.