The idea of a Youth Corps has been on my mind for quite awhile. A corps of young people 17 or 18 to 21, who are required to do a year of service to their country. Instead of a military draft which trains young people to be killers, I mean a draft that enables young people to be of service, to develop compassion, and to mature.
It is obvious that the infrastructure of the US is badly in need of repair. The National Parks and Wilderness Areas also demand attention. There are massive social issues that need correcting. Among these issues are young people who cannot find jobs, who fail college due to immaturity, who party too much and are generally at loose ends. It is time to use the energy of the young to help the country.
FDR started the WPA during the last Depression. It is time to start the Youth Corps. This country needs some grounded solution, not just political rhetoric. It is time for action not talk. Our country and the world need to lead in what is useful and right.
Youth Core service would be mandatory for both men and women. There would be a choice to serve in urban, rural or wilderness setting. The Corps members would be paid a basic salary, live in a communal setting or in the communities they serve, and in wilderness areas provided with food and housing. I don't envision large barracks, but smaller more user friendly environments.
After this year of service, the corps members could re-enter the greater society with matured attitude and experience. There could also be a monetary bonus at the end of a year for those who complete their service. Youth with non violent criminal records should be included. The children of the rich and privilege should be required to serve as everyone else. Perhaps this would develop some sense of responsibility instead of privilege in this sector of our society.
It is time for all of us to work for the common good. We all have skill and expertise that could be used by society. Let us find a place to use these. Time is not standing still. Positive action is needed.
Here is a link to amazing picture of the WPA. Check them out.
http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/pdfs/ppDIRwpa.pdf
It is obvious that the infrastructure of the US is badly in need of repair. The National Parks and Wilderness Areas also demand attention. There are massive social issues that need correcting. Among these issues are young people who cannot find jobs, who fail college due to immaturity, who party too much and are generally at loose ends. It is time to use the energy of the young to help the country.
FDR started the WPA during the last Depression. It is time to start the Youth Corps. This country needs some grounded solution, not just political rhetoric. It is time for action not talk. Our country and the world need to lead in what is useful and right.
Youth Core service would be mandatory for both men and women. There would be a choice to serve in urban, rural or wilderness setting. The Corps members would be paid a basic salary, live in a communal setting or in the communities they serve, and in wilderness areas provided with food and housing. I don't envision large barracks, but smaller more user friendly environments.
After this year of service, the corps members could re-enter the greater society with matured attitude and experience. There could also be a monetary bonus at the end of a year for those who complete their service. Youth with non violent criminal records should be included. The children of the rich and privilege should be required to serve as everyone else. Perhaps this would develop some sense of responsibility instead of privilege in this sector of our society.
It is time for all of us to work for the common good. We all have skill and expertise that could be used by society. Let us find a place to use these. Time is not standing still. Positive action is needed.
Here is a link to amazing picture of the WPA. Check them out.
http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/pdfs/ppDIRwpa.pdf
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