Tomorrow's Change Makers: Reclaiming the Power of Citizenship for a New Generation

Youth volunteerism and civic engagement has changed in America. While the numbers of young people who volunteer have risen substantially, recent studies show that very few find meaning and purpose through serving their communities. For many, volunteerism has become just another school requirement that bolsters a good college resume.

Dr. Marilyn Price-Mitchell suggests that in order for democracy to flourish, we must reverse these trends. Through real stories from civically-engaged youth, Tomorrow’s Change Makers illustrates the types of relationships and experiences that propel today’s young people to work toward the betterment of society. These narratives, combined with research in child and adolescent development, show why meaningful service should be at the heart of educating and raising American children. Introducing The Compass Advantage™ framework for understanding and applying core principles of positive youth development, Price-Mitchell demonstrates how families, schools, and communities not only play vital roles in raising tomorrow's citizens, but also foster the conditions that help youth chart their own self-fulfilling pathways through life.

Praise for Tomorrow's Change Makers

From Parenting Experts:

“This deeply researched, thought-provoking book shows insightful glimpses into the lives of children who grew up to care about the world.... The stories ...show parents that developing core abilities in children helps them grow into young adults who are capable of charting their own moral lives of meaning and purpose.”
—Michele Borba, EdD, author of Building Moral Intelligence

"This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a child and wants to see a better world.”
—Rachel Macy Stafford, New York Times bestselling author of Hand Free Mama & Hands Free Life

“This book provides tools and skills to help kids improve their own lives and the world around them. It is a must-read for anyone interested in nurturing the positive growth of today’s children.”
—Jane Nelsen, EdD, author of the Positive Discipline Series

From Educators:

“Marilyn’s research study...is a scholarly, insightful, and impressive contribution to the field of civic engagement.”
—Peter Levine, PhD, Associate Dean for Research, Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service, Tufts University

"This well-researched, insightful book shows how young people develop the passion to improve society...An essential and pleasurable read for all who care about the future of democracy.”
—Anne T. Henderson, author of Beyond the Bake Sale and Senior Consultant, Annenberg Institute for School Reform

"Dr. Price-Mitchell reminds us how young people discover motivation and passion to improve the lives of others. This is inspiring and useful research for those who work with youth.”
—Stephen D. Arnold, PhD, Co-founder, George Lucas Educational Foundation

From Community Leaders:

“Marilyn’s research and thinking inspires us to dive more deeply into the important work of engaging youth in our communities.”
—Amy Smith, President, generationOn

"For those who are worried about our kids and our country, Tomorrow’s Change Makers offers inspiration and hope."
—Marguerite Kondracke, retired CEO of America's Promise Alliance