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 By Elizabeth Richards Like so many people, I frequently face today’s news with feelings of despair and hopelessness. But in a world that often feels divided and uncertain, one of the most powerful sources of hope I encounter is working with college students who are deeply committed to social change and community engagement. As the leader of The Chandler Center (Southern New Hampshire University’s center for service and community engagement), I daily witness young people’s passion, creativity, curiosity, and determination in service to their community. This reminds me that the future is not only in capable hands, but also in hands that care deeply about justice, equity, and collective well-being. Young adults today are facing a world that is complex and full of challenges—climate change, systemic inequality, political polarization, and rising costs of living, just to name a few. And yet, rather than turning away from these issues, many of them are choosing to lean in. They are volunteering in local food pantries, organizing voter registration campaigns, facilitating difficult conversations, and developing innovative solutions to problems that affect their communities. It’s not performative. It’s personal. They believe they have a role to play in creating a better world—and they act on that belief. They lead with collaboration rather than competition. They prioritize listening and learning over ego and expertise. Many of them approach community work with humility, understanding that change doesn’t come from “saving” others, but from partnering with communities, sharing power, and building relationships grounded in mutual respect. That mindset represents a profound shift from older models of leadership and service—and it’s a shift we desperately need. They’re also unafraid to ask hard questions. They challenge institutions, including their own universities, to live up to their stated values. They push for inclusive policies, more equitable systems, and meaningful opportunities for civic learning. They are not satisfied with symbolic gestures; they want structural change—and they are willing to do the work to make it happen. Of course, young people don’t have all the answers. None of us do. But the energy they bring, the values they live by, and the solidarity they practice remind me every day that positive change is not only possible—it’s already underway. The future is being shaped right now in student-led meetings, community forums, voter registration drives, mutual aid projects, and classrooms where difficult truths are being confronted with courage. Working with college students doesn’t just give me hope—it keeps me going. It reminds me why this work matters. It provides daily evidence that the legacy of our elders lives on in the courage and conviction of young people and in their belief that a better world is possible. Elizabeth Richards serves as the assistant vice president of The Chandler Center, Southern New Hampshire University’s center for civic and community engagement. The Chandler Center envisions a community where every individual is empowered to be curious about and committed to social action and works to meet that vision through the cultivation of community-based leadership opportunities, meaningful community partnerships, and social issue education for students. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Specialized Studies in Conference and Event Planning & Master of Education in College Student Personnel from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She has held professional roles in residence life, student conduct, student leadership, and community engagement. Elizabeth has presented at state, regional, and national conferences on the Social Change Model of Leadership, the challenges faced by first-generation college students, and the role of white people in anti-racism work. She teaches courses related to race, gender, and power and has 15+ years as a social justice educator. When she’s not working, Elizabeth is reading queer romance novels, crocheting, baking, or volunteering in her community. She lives near Concord, New Hampshire, with her wife, two children, and a very fluffy cat. Please note: We invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Of course, young people don’t have all the answers. None of us do. But the energy they bring, the values they live by, and the solidarity they practice remind me every day that positive change is not only possible—it’s already underway. Comments are closed.
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