All Forums > Action Network Forum

Letter to the Editor

Jul 03, 2008 Posted by Anna Wheatley

At the end of this week, we will celebrate our nation’s independence and the legacy of democracy and the American Dream that has followed.  And while traditional forms of honoring this national holiday are great in their own respect, it is important that we look beyond one day of celebration and find ways to “celebrate” and foster the sense of civic pride and American potential that July 4th encapsulates.  The national service expansion movement promoted by organizations such as Serve Next provides our democracy, our country, and its citizens the opportunity to take an active role in its function and health an ongoing tribute of sorts to those first patriots that fought for the independence of this country.    For over a decade now, thousands of Americans have already made a pledge of involvement in communities throughout the country through government sponsored national service organizations such as AmeriCorps.  Both from my own personal experiences whether locally or internationally as well as from hearing others’ volunteer experiences through AmeriCorps or otherwise, there can be no doubt that service to others changes people.  Service makes us more aware of the needs of others, more motivated to make a difference, and this can ultimately lead, I believe, to a more connected, more compassionate community.
    After the Revolutionary War, the United States of America was created as a government and a nation “by and for the people.”  July 4th reminds us of this tradition and this responsibility.  With the expansion of national service endorsed by both presidential candidates, we are at an exciting juncture in American history and daily life.  If national service were to become a larger part of American culture, the possibilities and potential for positive change seems almost limitless.

ServeNext In Action

Recent Tags

Blogroll

• National Service Express Tour '08
• 
• Social Citizens
• 
• Change Wire
• 
• America Forward
•