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Op-ed: March 3, 2010 - Huffington Post
Teachers on America's Schools
Recent efforts have elevated the strongest, but too-seldom heard voices for what is needed in American education. And what we're hearing from high school dropouts, parents of at-risk children, and teachers is driving a national consensus for reforms that can significantly boost student achievement. Read the Article >>
Teachers on America's Schools
Recent efforts have elevated the strongest, but too-seldom heard voices for what is needed in American education. And what we're hearing from high school dropouts, parents of at-risk children, and teachers is driving a national consensus for reforms that can significantly boost student achievement. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 17, 2010 - Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fulfill King's goal with a call for global service
The Service America Act will provide millions of Americans new opportunities to address challenges within our borders on education, poverty, health and the environment. The International Service Act can unleash millions of Americans to address these challenges globally. Read the Article >>
Fulfill King's goal with a call for global service
The Service America Act will provide millions of Americans new opportunities to address challenges within our borders on education, poverty, health and the environment. The International Service Act can unleash millions of Americans to address these challenges globally. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 15, 2009 - Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity
2009: Poverty and the Great Recession
The tough job market hits those in need most. According to the New York Times, 20,000 people a day are signing up for food stamps, and almost nine out of ten people who benefit from the program are below the poverty line. More than one in ten Americans already rely on food stamps, including half of those under 20 and 90 percent of African-American children. Read the Article >>
2009: Poverty and the Great Recession
The tough job market hits those in need most. According to the New York Times, 20,000 people a day are signing up for food stamps, and almost nine out of ten people who benefit from the program are below the poverty line. More than one in ten Americans already rely on food stamps, including half of those under 20 and 90 percent of African-American children. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 14, 2009 - The Huffington Post
Put Service on Steroids
As America struggles to recover from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, the nation's top priority is finding jobs for the 10 percent of men and women out of work. An even more staggering figure often gets lost in the debate: four million unemployed people between the ages of 16 and 24, and record teen unemployment of 27%. If the U.S. wants to make a real dent in unemployment, young people are the place to start - and a sweeping call to national service may be the answer. Read the Article >>
Put Service on Steroids
As America struggles to recover from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, the nation's top priority is finding jobs for the 10 percent of men and women out of work. An even more staggering figure often gets lost in the debate: four million unemployed people between the ages of 16 and 24, and record teen unemployment of 27%. If the U.S. wants to make a real dent in unemployment, young people are the place to start - and a sweeping call to national service may be the answer. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 8, 2009 - The Huffington Post
New Hope in Africa to End Malaria
Malaria is a disease of sad contradiction - it is fully preventable and treatable, yet it kills about 1 million people every year, mostly pregnant women and children in Sub-Saharan Africa. . . The troops to eliminate malaria are on the march. In the last decade, an unbreakable syndicate of hope has emerged - including a new Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the World Bank, the President's Malaria Initiative, the Gates Foundation, and others - which is investing billions to end malaria deaths in Africa by 2015. Read the Article >>
New Hope in Africa to End Malaria
Malaria is a disease of sad contradiction - it is fully preventable and treatable, yet it kills about 1 million people every year, mostly pregnant women and children in Sub-Saharan Africa. . . The troops to eliminate malaria are on the march. In the last decade, an unbreakable syndicate of hope has emerged - including a new Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the World Bank, the President's Malaria Initiative, the Gates Foundation, and others - which is investing billions to end malaria deaths in Africa by 2015. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: November 11, 2009 - The Huffington Post
A Gift on Veterans Day: Re-Engage Veterans in Service
Americans do a great job welcoming veterans at the airport and government worries about their health care, but a report released today shows that far too little is done to reintegrate veterans into community life and to continue to engage them in the very service that defines who they are and can help them with their transitions home. Read the Article >>
A Gift on Veterans Day: Re-Engage Veterans in Service
Americans do a great job welcoming veterans at the airport and government worries about their health care, but a report released today shows that far too little is done to reintegrate veterans into community life and to continue to engage them in the very service that defines who they are and can help them with their transitions home. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: November 11, 2009 - Cincinnati.com
Encouraging service helps veterans
Veterans Day has been a day of parades and speeches from politicians. Our country has new data that can turn this day into something far more meaningful for our nation's veterans - engage them in service on the home front. Read the Article >>
Encouraging service helps veterans
Veterans Day has been a day of parades and speeches from politicians. Our country has new data that can turn this day into something far more meaningful for our nation's veterans - engage them in service on the home front. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: November 11, 2009 - The Case Foundation
All Volunteer Force: From military to civilian service
Since the dawn of the 21st century, nearly two million Americans have served in our nation's wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. These servicemen and women have risked their lives on battlefields from Kabul to Baghdad, not as a result of government mandate, but as a voluntary act of courage, conscience, and commitment. Read the Article >>
All Volunteer Force: From military to civilian service
Since the dawn of the 21st century, nearly two million Americans have served in our nation's wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. These servicemen and women have risked their lives on battlefields from Kabul to Baghdad, not as a result of government mandate, but as a voluntary act of courage, conscience, and commitment. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: October 27, 2009 - Worldview
New Hope and Lessons from Rwanda: Faith-based and community organizations tackle the scourge of malaria
Maybe hope does spring eternal. Fifteen years ago, Rwanda was home to one of the worst genocides of the century, resulting in the slaughter of one million Tutsi. Today, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa and is saving thousands of lives from a fully preventable and treatable disease, malaria. Read the Article >>
New Hope and Lessons from Rwanda: Faith-based and community organizations tackle the scourge of malaria
Maybe hope does spring eternal. Fifteen years ago, Rwanda was home to one of the worst genocides of the century, resulting in the slaughter of one million Tutsi. Today, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa and is saving thousands of lives from a fully preventable and treatable disease, malaria. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 28, 2009 - Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity
Our Common Obligation to Give of Ourselves
Since his passing in August, Ted Kennedy has been hailed for his record as one of the great liberal leaders of the Democratic Party. Yet we should not overlook one of Kennedy's most significant bipartisan accomplishments and a major element of his legacy: engaging more Americans in serving their nation. Read the Article >>
Our Common Obligation to Give of Ourselves
Since his passing in August, Ted Kennedy has been hailed for his record as one of the great liberal leaders of the Democratic Party. Yet we should not overlook one of Kennedy's most significant bipartisan accomplishments and a major element of his legacy: engaging more Americans in serving their nation. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: August 28, 2009 - The Huffington Post
Civic Health in Hard Times
America's economic recession is causing a civic depression. As our country loses jobs and wealth, our civic stocks are on the edge of civic foreclosure at the exact time when we need America's volunteer and charitable spirit most. Low-income Americans point the way forward while God, friends, and Facebook provide a civic safety net. Read the Article >>
Civic Health in Hard Times
America's economic recession is causing a civic depression. As our country loses jobs and wealth, our civic stocks are on the edge of civic foreclosure at the exact time when we need America's volunteer and charitable spirit most. Low-income Americans point the way forward while God, friends, and Facebook provide a civic safety net. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: August 28, 2009 - Cincinnati.com
Kennedy dream lives on in our volunteer spirit
Sen. Edward Kennedy will be remembered for many achievements in Congress. I remember him for the legacy of community and national service he left our nation. It was a torch his brother, President John F. Kennedy, had wanted to pass. When President Kennedy issued his call to all Americans to "ask not," America was already at the zenith of its civic life. Read the Article >>
Kennedy dream lives on in our volunteer spirit
Sen. Edward Kennedy will be remembered for many achievements in Congress. I remember him for the legacy of community and national service he left our nation. It was a torch his brother, President John F. Kennedy, had wanted to pass. When President Kennedy issued his call to all Americans to "ask not," America was already at the zenith of its civic life. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 17, 2009 - Politico
There's no stimulus like service
President Barack Obama has asked for $1.15 billion (already a slight reduction from what was authorized, to reflect these tough economic times) to fund the Serve America Act and Social Innovation Fund. That’s less than one-fifth of 1 percent of the federal money committed to the stimulus package. Read the Article >>
There's no stimulus like service
President Barack Obama has asked for $1.15 billion (already a slight reduction from what was authorized, to reflect these tough economic times) to fund the Serve America Act and Social Innovation Fund. That’s less than one-fifth of 1 percent of the federal money committed to the stimulus package. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: June 15, 2009 - Roll Call
Volunteers for Prosperity
As President Barack Obama and former Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) debate whether Americans should be "citizens of the world," the time and talents of Americans are urgently needed abroad to continue to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other issues in the developing world. Read the Article >>
Volunteers for Prosperity
As President Barack Obama and former Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) debate whether Americans should be "citizens of the world," the time and talents of Americans are urgently needed abroad to continue to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other issues in the developing world. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 28, 2009 - Cincinnati.com
Service alliance: A 'perfect storm' of hope
Congress has now passed the most comprehensive national and community service legislation in our history. The "quantum leap" to engage millions more Americans in serving their country has eluded prior generations. Finally, service has its moment in this perfect storm of hope. Read the Article >>
Service alliance: A 'perfect storm' of hope
Congress has now passed the most comprehensive national and community service legislation in our history. The "quantum leap" to engage millions more Americans in serving their country has eluded prior generations. Finally, service has its moment in this perfect storm of hope. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 23, 2009 - McClatchy-Tribune
Commentary: Interfaith action would help bring a malaria-free world
For years, "malaria day" in Africa was a somber occasion. Another year would come and go, and another million people would die from a fully preventable and treatable disease. Malaria was often viewed as just a "fact of life" and disease of last priority. No more. Read the Article >>
Commentary: Interfaith action would help bring a malaria-free world
For years, "malaria day" in Africa was a somber occasion. Another year would come and go, and another million people would die from a fully preventable and treatable disease. Malaria was often viewed as just a "fact of life" and disease of last priority. No more. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: March 26, 2009 - Roll Call
Service Act Speaks to the Heart of America
At a time when our country faces great challenges, Americans are stepping forward in record numbers to serve. This week the Senate is considering the Serve America Act, legislation that would reauthorize the programs run by the Corporation for National and Community Service and create a new platform for focusing an expansion of service on the critical problems before us.
Service Act Speaks to the Heart of America
At a time when our country faces great challenges, Americans are stepping forward in record numbers to serve. This week the Senate is considering the Serve America Act, legislation that would reauthorize the programs run by the Corporation for National and Community Service and create a new platform for focusing an expansion of service on the critical problems before us.
Op-ed: March 23, 2009 - Detroit Free Press
A stimulus for nonprofits: Don't discount the value or distress of nonprofits
Even though the nonprofit sector constitutes 11% of the U.S. workforce -- greater than the auto and financial industries combined -- the debate in Washington over how to get the country moving again has almost completely overlooked nonprofits. Read the Article >>
A stimulus for nonprofits: Don't discount the value or distress of nonprofits
Even though the nonprofit sector constitutes 11% of the U.S. workforce -- greater than the auto and financial industries combined -- the debate in Washington over how to get the country moving again has almost completely overlooked nonprofits. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 17, 2009 - Real Clear Politics
Meeting the dropout challenge
Good news is rare these days. Home foreclosures, a credit crunch, and rising unemployment have sent ripples of fear through the American economy. Youth unemployment is approaching levels seen during the Great Depression. The nation could use a ray of hope, and progress is being made on one issue that deepens unemployment and poverty — the high school dropout epidemic. Read the Article >>
Meeting the dropout challenge
Good news is rare these days. Home foreclosures, a credit crunch, and rising unemployment have sent ripples of fear through the American economy. Youth unemployment is approaching levels seen during the Great Depression. The nation could use a ray of hope, and progress is being made on one issue that deepens unemployment and poverty — the high school dropout epidemic. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 23, 2009 - The New York Times
Volunteer to Save the Economy
This week, President Obama called upon all Americans to volunteer, to pitch in and give back. We hope that the president is serious about this challenge, because providing more opportunities for national and community service won't just lift the nation's spirit, it could help save the economy. Read the Article >>
Volunteer to Save the Economy
This week, President Obama called upon all Americans to volunteer, to pitch in and give back. We hope that the president is serious about this challenge, because providing more opportunities for national and community service won't just lift the nation's spirit, it could help save the economy. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 19, 2009 - Cincinnati Enquirer
King's Legacy Calls us to Serve Others
We celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. with a great American tradition - volunteer service. King said "everyone can be great because everyone can serve," and every year since Congress passed legislation in 1994, we honor King's holiday as a day of service. Read the Article >>
King's Legacy Calls us to Serve Others
We celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. with a great American tradition - volunteer service. King said "everyone can be great because everyone can serve," and every year since Congress passed legislation in 1994, we honor King's holiday as a day of service. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 1, 2009 - The NonProfit Times
Igniting A Service Nation: Powering a nation's economic recovery through service
With crashing stock markets and soaring unemployment, President Franklin Roosevelt called the Congress into emergency session in March of 1933 to adopt his Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to put jobless young people to work on public lands beset by soil erosion and deforestation. Read the Article >>
Igniting A Service Nation: Powering a nation's economic recovery through service
With crashing stock markets and soaring unemployment, President Franklin Roosevelt called the Congress into emergency session in March of 1933 to adopt his Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to put jobless young people to work on public lands beset by soil erosion and deforestation. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: October 27, 2008 - The Washington Times
Parental role is critical: Nurturing children for the future
In today's tough economic times, some parents may take a second job and many others will work longer hours to make ends meet, which could result in less time helping their children with school. These circumstances may feed a misperception that low-income parents are not interested in their children's academic success. The opposite is true. Read the Article >>
Parental role is critical: Nurturing children for the future
In today's tough economic times, some parents may take a second job and many others will work longer hours to make ends meet, which could result in less time helping their children with school. These circumstances may feed a misperception that low-income parents are not interested in their children's academic success. The opposite is true. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 25, 2008 - Christian Science Monitor
The Next Generation of Willing and Ready Volunteers: Baby Boomers
John McCain and Barack Obama are highlighting different approaches to solving our nation's most pressing problems. But one approach both candidates agree on is harnessing the power of America's people through community and national service. Read the Article >>
The Next Generation of Willing and Ready Volunteers: Baby Boomers
John McCain and Barack Obama are highlighting different approaches to solving our nation's most pressing problems. But one approach both candidates agree on is harnessing the power of America's people through community and national service. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 9, 2008 - Washington Times
BRIDGELAND: Volunteer America -- A renewed call
Fortunately, the next president will have a running start. The ServiceNation Summit in New York City on Sept. 11 and 12 - featuring the presidential candidates, veteran legislators with lifetimes of service and iconic Americans with institutional power - will unveil a bold service agenda with the support of 110 organizations reaching 100 million Americans. Read the Article >>
BRIDGELAND: Volunteer America -- A renewed call
Fortunately, the next president will have a running start. The ServiceNation Summit in New York City on Sept. 11 and 12 - featuring the presidential candidates, veteran legislators with lifetimes of service and iconic Americans with institutional power - will unveil a bold service agenda with the support of 110 organizations reaching 100 million Americans. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 12, 2008 - Cincinnati Enquirer
Too many fail to realize basic idea of America: We decide
A former four-star general has said that Sen. John McCain's military service is not relevant to his ability to be commander in chief. Sen. Barack Obama's loyalty as an American has been questioned because of his failure to wear a flag pin and hold his hand over his heart. Personal attacks and gesture politics are no substitute for a serious conversation about patriotism. Read the Article >>
Too many fail to realize basic idea of America: We decide
A former four-star general has said that Sen. John McCain's military service is not relevant to his ability to be commander in chief. Sen. Barack Obama's loyalty as an American has been questioned because of his failure to wear a flag pin and hold his hand over his heart. Personal attacks and gesture politics are no substitute for a serious conversation about patriotism. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: May 10, 2008 - The Washington Times
Investing in National Parks
Last week's announcement of projects across America to strengthen our national parks reminds us of a powerful lesson — when the American people are challenged, they always respond. Read the Article >>
Investing in National Parks
Last week's announcement of projects across America to strengthen our national parks reminds us of a powerful lesson — when the American people are challenged, they always respond. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 28, 2008 - The Weekly Standard
A Bush Success (not that he gets credit): The Medicare drug benefit is working better than predicted
It's been said that you can prove the possible by the actual--and in this case, the "actual" is that sensible public policy can liberate markets to work in health care just as they work in every other area. Governmentalists have a deep interest in grounding policy debates on issues like health care in abstractions and appeals to fear of the unknown. Pro-market reformers, on the other hand, need only to test their propositions against reality. Read the Article >>
A Bush Success (not that he gets credit): The Medicare drug benefit is working better than predicted
It's been said that you can prove the possible by the actual--and in this case, the "actual" is that sensible public policy can liberate markets to work in health care just as they work in every other area. Governmentalists have a deep interest in grounding policy debates on issues like health care in abstractions and appeals to fear of the unknown. Pro-market reformers, on the other hand, need only to test their propositions against reality. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 22, 2008 - The Washington Times
It's the economy, stupid
At times, it seems the rest of the world understands the power of our free markets and sensible policies better than we do. Reform-minded governments around the world now compete with each other to secure the lowest possible corporate and income tax rates, reform their entitlement programs and expand free trade. Meanwhile, the Democratic candidates for president want to erect new trade barriers, raise taxes and expand government. Read the Article >>
It's the economy, stupid
At times, it seems the rest of the world understands the power of our free markets and sensible policies better than we do. Reform-minded governments around the world now compete with each other to secure the lowest possible corporate and income tax rates, reform their entitlement programs and expand free trade. Meanwhile, the Democratic candidates for president want to erect new trade barriers, raise taxes and expand government. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 15, 2008 - The Christian Science Monitor
The key to keeping teens in school: Service learning tackles high dropout rates and civic disengagement
New research shows that service-learning has the ability to increase attendance, improve student motivation, and engage students in learning, thereby fighting the dropout crisis and helping students become active citizens. Read the Article >>
The key to keeping teens in school: Service learning tackles high dropout rates and civic disengagement
New research shows that service-learning has the ability to increase attendance, improve student motivation, and engage students in learning, thereby fighting the dropout crisis and helping students become active citizens. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: March 17, 2008 - The Weekly Standard
The Swedish Solution: A Social Security reform made in Scandinavia?
The Social Security Administration expects the U.S. population age 65 and older to increase by more than 40 percent between 2006 and 2020. Projections show Social Security's costs will begin to exceed revenue in 2017, with the gap widening rapidly thereafter. Pressure is building for a sizable increase in payroll taxes. Read the Article >>
The Swedish Solution: A Social Security reform made in Scandinavia?
The Social Security Administration expects the U.S. population age 65 and older to increase by more than 40 percent between 2006 and 2020. Projections show Social Security's costs will begin to exceed revenue in 2017, with the gap widening rapidly thereafter. Pressure is building for a sizable increase in payroll taxes. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 27, 2008 - The Washington Times
Fighting Malaria, Public/Private Partnership Targets Disease
Earlier this month, the World Health Organization reported significant progress in the fight against malaria — a more than 50 percent reduction in deaths from malaria in several districts in Rwanda and Ethiopia largely as a result of life-saving bed nets. Read the Article >>
Fighting Malaria, Public/Private Partnership Targets Disease
Earlier this month, the World Health Organization reported significant progress in the fight against malaria — a more than 50 percent reduction in deaths from malaria in several districts in Rwanda and Ethiopia largely as a result of life-saving bed nets. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 14, 2008 - The Washington Times
The population gap
The size of a country's economy depends fundamentally on two factors: how much each worker, on average, can produce and the absolute size of the active workforce. Business investment in new technology, modern production plants and better equipment are crucial, as these investments increase worker productivity, which in turn boosts total output, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP). Read the Article >>
The population gap
The size of a country's economy depends fundamentally on two factors: how much each worker, on average, can produce and the absolute size of the active workforce. Business investment in new technology, modern production plants and better equipment are crucial, as these investments increase worker productivity, which in turn boosts total output, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP). Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 13, 2008 - ChamberPost
Perspective on the Mortgage Crisis
Finally, someone has hit on a key issue that too many commentators have preferred to ignore: subprime mortgages were partially a response by lenders to the increasing inability of ordinary families to afford a home. Read the Article >>
Perspective on the Mortgage Crisis
Finally, someone has hit on a key issue that too many commentators have preferred to ignore: subprime mortgages were partially a response by lenders to the increasing inability of ordinary families to afford a home. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 4, 2008 - ChamberPost
What the Rankings Tell Us
Utah tops the Beacon Hill Institute's 2007 State Competitiveness Rankings, passing last year's leader, Massachusetts, which moved into second place this year. The rankings show which states have better policies in place for sustaining high levels of per capita income and continued economic growth. Read the Article >>
What the Rankings Tell Us
Utah tops the Beacon Hill Institute's 2007 State Competitiveness Rankings, passing last year's leader, Massachusetts, which moved into second place this year. The rankings show which states have better policies in place for sustaining high levels of per capita income and continued economic growth. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 1, 2008 - The Washington Times
Citizen service
In the aftermath of September 11 and before a near-record State of the Union audience of more than 50 million Americans in 2002, Mr. Bush called on every American to give two years of their lives in service to the nation and announced the largest civic engagement initiative since Franklin Roosevelt's Civilian Conservation Corps. He issued a call to service that echoes down the ages. Read the Article >>
Citizen service
In the aftermath of September 11 and before a near-record State of the Union audience of more than 50 million Americans in 2002, Mr. Bush called on every American to give two years of their lives in service to the nation and announced the largest civic engagement initiative since Franklin Roosevelt's Civilian Conservation Corps. He issued a call to service that echoes down the ages. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: Winter 2008 - The New Atlantis
The Clipboard of the Future
Most Americans have instantaneous access to their banking records over the Internet. They can see cancelled checks, pay bills, switch investment portfolios, and schedule alerts to help them stay on top of their finances. But they never see their medical records, do not have ready access to their children's immunization history, forget the last time they had their cholesterol checked, do not know if their blood pressure is normal or elevated, and generally have no idea what all the tests they have had over the years mean for the likelihood they may face a serious illness, like cancer or heart disease. Read the Article >>
The Clipboard of the Future
Most Americans have instantaneous access to their banking records over the Internet. They can see cancelled checks, pay bills, switch investment portfolios, and schedule alerts to help them stay on top of their finances. But they never see their medical records, do not have ready access to their children's immunization history, forget the last time they had their cholesterol checked, do not know if their blood pressure is normal or elevated, and generally have no idea what all the tests they have had over the years mean for the likelihood they may face a serious illness, like cancer or heart disease. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 20, 2008 - The Cincinnati Enquirer
Hillary, Armstrong, Washington - 'first men' who set the tone
The death of Sir Edmund Hillary this month elicited reflections on his life and character. From all accounts, Hillary was a good and decent man who climbed Everest for the adventure, not the fame. Humility and competence seem to be the common thread uniting three "First Men" - George Washington, Neil Armstrong and Edmund Hillary. Read the Article >>
Hillary, Armstrong, Washington - 'first men' who set the tone
The death of Sir Edmund Hillary this month elicited reflections on his life and character. From all accounts, Hillary was a good and decent man who climbed Everest for the adventure, not the fame. Humility and competence seem to be the common thread uniting three "First Men" - George Washington, Neil Armstrong and Edmund Hillary. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 17, 2008 - The Washington Times
Reforming education
What's needed now is a renewed emphasis on a strong parental role in education. For too long, parents have been an afterthought in education policy, even as studies continue to confirm they are the key to educational success. Indeed, hands-on parental involvement has been found to be more important than socioeconomic status in predicting a child's academic achievement. Read the Article >>
Reforming education
What's needed now is a renewed emphasis on a strong parental role in education. For too long, parents have been an afterthought in education policy, even as studies continue to confirm they are the key to educational success. Indeed, hands-on parental involvement has been found to be more important than socioeconomic status in predicting a child's academic achievement. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: November 14, 2007 - Washington Post
High Achievers, Left Behind
The difference in earnings between a college and a high school graduate is greater now than it has been in 90 years. And as our economy continues to create jobs that reward post-secondary education with higher pay, the odds are that faster upward mobility will continue to be linked with education. Read the Article >>
High Achievers, Left Behind
The difference in earnings between a college and a high school graduate is greater now than it has been in 90 years. And as our economy continues to create jobs that reward post-secondary education with higher pay, the odds are that faster upward mobility will continue to be linked with education. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: November 12, 2007 - Washington Times
Wiping out malaria
The world is mobilizing to attack the single leading cause of death among children in Africa — a preventable and treatable disease called malaria — and good progress is being made. Read the Article >>
Wiping out malaria
The world is mobilizing to attack the single leading cause of death among children in Africa — a preventable and treatable disease called malaria — and good progress is being made. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: October 17, 2007 - Washington Times
Independent workers in '08
Today, independent workers constitute more than 30 percent of the U.S. workforce and are among the most politically and civically active Americans. Despite their growing importance, independent workers are absent from policy debates in Washington and health-care plans announced by presidential campaigns. Read the Article >>
Independent workers in '08
Today, independent workers constitute more than 30 percent of the U.S. workforce and are among the most politically and civically active Americans. Despite their growing importance, independent workers are absent from policy debates in Washington and health-care plans announced by presidential campaigns. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 1, 2007 - TIME Magazine
Let's Get Connected
America could really use a civics lesson. And it's about to get one. The National Conference on Citizenship, a federally chartered nonprofit founded in 1946 to strengthen civic ties, will release the first Civic Health Index next week, tracking changes in the awareness and engagement of the citizenry over the past three decades. Read the Article >>
Let's Get Connected
America could really use a civics lesson. And it's about to get one. The National Conference on Citizenship, a federally chartered nonprofit founded in 1946 to strengthen civic ties, will release the first Civic Health Index next week, tracking changes in the awareness and engagement of the citizenry over the past three decades. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 26, 2007 - The Washington Post
A Program Already Serving the World
Walter Isaacson's July 9 op-ed, "A Vision to Match the Threat," outlined six bold ideas to combat new global challenges. One of those ideas -- "a corps of trained doctors, engineers, teachers, administrators and municipal workers" for service abroad -- is already in place. Read the Article >>
A Program Already Serving the World
Walter Isaacson's July 9 op-ed, "A Vision to Match the Threat," outlined six bold ideas to combat new global challenges. One of those ideas -- "a corps of trained doctors, engineers, teachers, administrators and municipal workers" for service abroad -- is already in place. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: June 1, 2007 - The Washington Times
National parks for a new century
The 391 sites of the national park system should be places that bring people together around common purposes of enjoyment, recreation, learning and personal renewal. They also can foster unity by protecting some of our finest historic, cultural and natural resources... Read the Article >>
National parks for a new century
The 391 sites of the national park system should be places that bring people together around common purposes of enjoyment, recreation, learning and personal renewal. They also can foster unity by protecting some of our finest historic, cultural and natural resources... Read the Article >>
Op-ed: May 10, 2007 - The Washington Times
Stemming the Dropout Tide
Now, there is a clear sense of urgency and purpose behind efforts to reduce the number of dropouts. As evidence of the growing momentum, today a national dropout summit in Washington, DC... will bring educators and policymakers from all 50 states together with innovators and experts to throw down the gauntlet for reform. Read the Article >>
Stemming the Dropout Tide
Now, there is a clear sense of urgency and purpose behind efforts to reduce the number of dropouts. As evidence of the growing momentum, today a national dropout summit in Washington, DC... will bring educators and policymakers from all 50 states together with innovators and experts to throw down the gauntlet for reform. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: Spring 2007 - The New Atlantis
What's Ailing Health Care?
The medical revolution has not just saved lives; there has also been a marked improvement in the quality of life for millions of Americans... The paradox, of course, is that while medical breakthroughs have vastly improved the length and quality of life for millions of Americans, there is a growing sense of frustration and restlessness about the American system of health care. It is not without cause. Read the Article >>
What's Ailing Health Care?
The medical revolution has not just saved lives; there has also been a marked improvement in the quality of life for millions of Americans... The paradox, of course, is that while medical breakthroughs have vastly improved the length and quality of life for millions of Americans, there is a growing sense of frustration and restlessness about the American system of health care. It is not without cause. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: February 8, 2007 - The Washington Times
A centennial challenge
This week, the president's release of a multibillion-dollar centennial plan will be an important step in determining what national park system we celebrate in 2016. Read the Article >>
A centennial challenge
This week, the president's release of a multibillion-dollar centennial plan will be an important step in determining what national park system we celebrate in 2016. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: January 28, 2007 - Cincinnati Enquirer
Hope, progress abound vs. malaria in Africa
A new nonprofit effort called Malaria No More is mobilizing a global, grass-roots network of millions of people to combat malaria and has agreed to come alongside the Rwandan Church to assist them in training volunteers, and closing gaps in prevention and treatment. Read the Article >>
Hope, progress abound vs. malaria in Africa
A new nonprofit effort called Malaria No More is mobilizing a global, grass-roots network of millions of people to combat malaria and has agreed to come alongside the Rwandan Church to assist them in training volunteers, and closing gaps in prevention and treatment. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 13, 2006 - McClatchy Company
A New War in Rwanda
Rwanda has been a place of tragedy; it is now a land of hope. Read the Article >>
A New War in Rwanda
Rwanda has been a place of tragedy; it is now a land of hope. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 12, 2006 - Washington Times
Saving millions of lives
Can a disease that needlessly kills a million Africans and makes another 300 million worldwide sick every year awaken the national and global consciousness? We are about to find out. Read the Article >>
Saving millions of lives
Can a disease that needlessly kills a million Africans and makes another 300 million worldwide sick every year awaken the national and global consciousness? We are about to find out. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: October 4, 2006 - Washington Times
Civic priorities, Take Greater Stock In Giving Back
The National Conference on Citizenship, a non-profit created by Congress to strengthen our civic ties, recently released its new Civic Health Index, which charts our nation's civic progress over the last 30 years. While there are signs of civic recovery in areas of national focus, our civic health shows steep declines in most of 40 measures. Read the Article >>
Civic priorities, Take Greater Stock In Giving Back
The National Conference on Citizenship, a non-profit created by Congress to strengthen our civic ties, recently released its new Civic Health Index, which charts our nation's civic progress over the last 30 years. While there are signs of civic recovery in areas of national focus, our civic health shows steep declines in most of 40 measures. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 27, 2006 - Washington Times
Help youths in need
Congress has an opportunity to fix some costly problems that affect the hundreds of federal programs that target disadvantaged youth. Read the Article >>
Help youths in need
Congress has an opportunity to fix some costly problems that affect the hundreds of federal programs that target disadvantaged youth. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 10, 2006 - TIME Magazine
Let's Get Connected
America could really use a civics lesson. And it's about to get one. The National Conference on Citizenship, a federally chartered nonprofit founded in 1946 to strengthen civic ties, will release the first Civic Health Index next week, tracking changes in the awareness and engagement of the citizenry over the past three decades. Read the Article >>
Let's Get Connected
America could really use a civics lesson. And it's about to get one. The National Conference on Citizenship, a federally chartered nonprofit founded in 1946 to strengthen civic ties, will release the first Civic Health Index next week, tracking changes in the awareness and engagement of the citizenry over the past three decades. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 26, 2006 - The Washington Times
Looking out for dropouts
Every year, almost one-third of all public high-school students -- and nearly one-half of minority students -- fail to graduate from public high school with their class. Read the Article >>
Looking out for dropouts
Every year, almost one-third of all public high-school students -- and nearly one-half of minority students -- fail to graduate from public high school with their class. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 27, 2006 - The Philadelphia Inquirer
The challenge for faith-based initiatives
Given constitutional fidelity, administrative true grit, and adequate funding, faith-based initiatives can do what leaders in both parties inside and beyond the beltway sincerely want them to do, namely, measurably help millions in need. Read the Article >>
The challenge for faith-based initiatives
Given constitutional fidelity, administrative true grit, and adequate funding, faith-based initiatives can do what leaders in both parties inside and beyond the beltway sincerely want them to do, namely, measurably help millions in need. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: March 8, 2006 - The Washington Times
An agenda of compassion that works
The future of the compassion agenda will require smarter policies to help those prosperity has left behind. Read the Article >>
An agenda of compassion that works
The future of the compassion agenda will require smarter policies to help those prosperity has left behind. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: October 13, 2005 - The Wall Street Journal
IFC Wasn't Attempting to 'Blame America First'
All of this is now history, and the IFC will not be built at Ground Zero. I do wish for something hopeful to emerge at Ground Zero so this place will tell the full story of 9/11 – both the tragedy and the service and sacrifice that helped transcend the suffering. Read the Article >>
IFC Wasn't Attempting to 'Blame America First'
All of this is now history, and the IFC will not be built at Ground Zero. I do wish for something hopeful to emerge at Ground Zero so this place will tell the full story of 9/11 – both the tragedy and the service and sacrifice that helped transcend the suffering. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: September 23, 2005 - New York Sun
At Ground Zero
Leaders in New York City will soon decide their plans for ground zero, including whether an institution already designated for the site after a long and very public competition - the International Freedom Center - will survive. Read the Article >>
At Ground Zero
Leaders in New York City will soon decide their plans for ground zero, including whether an institution already designated for the site after a long and very public competition - the International Freedom Center - will survive. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 15, 2005 - Cincinnatti Post
An example for Boomers
Efforts to foster a civic reawakening after Sept. 11, 2001 have been successful in boosting volunteerism, increasing national service programs and engaging Americans in protecting the homeland. But one gap is the failure to engage the millions of Baby Boomers who will start to retire as early as next January. Read the Article >>
An example for Boomers
Efforts to foster a civic reawakening after Sept. 11, 2001 have been successful in boosting volunteerism, increasing national service programs and engaging Americans in protecting the homeland. But one gap is the failure to engage the millions of Baby Boomers who will start to retire as early as next January. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: May 27, 2005 - The Philadelphia Inquirer
Saving a Majestic Bird from Extinction
So endangered that most bird guides list Campephilus principalis as extinct, the ivory-billed woodpecker has now been found. For centuries, it has inspired its finders, and for six decades it has been silent. Read the Article >>
Saving a Majestic Bird from Extinction
So endangered that most bird guides list Campephilus principalis as extinct, the ivory-billed woodpecker has now been found. For centuries, it has inspired its finders, and for six decades it has been silent. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: April 29, 2005 - The Cincinnati Post
Rep. Portman has served his district well
When I asked Portman in 1993 why he wanted to run for Congress, he said 'it's a national platform from which to do good.' And a lot of good he did. Read the Article >>
Rep. Portman has served his district well
When I asked Portman in 1993 why he wanted to run for Congress, he said 'it's a national platform from which to do good.' And a lot of good he did. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: Winter 2005 - The Committee to Encourage Corporate Philanthropy
In Service to the Nation: the Corporate and Philanthropic Challenge in Communities
In recent weeks, two former U.S. Presidents joined forces with President Bush to mobilize Americans to give aid to survivors of the Tsunami through the USA Freedom Corps. Read the Article >>
In Service to the Nation: the Corporate and Philanthropic Challenge in Communities
In recent weeks, two former U.S. Presidents joined forces with President Bush to mobilize Americans to give aid to survivors of the Tsunami through the USA Freedom Corps. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 3, 2004 - Philadelphia Inquirer
A nation of doers needs to do more
The benefits of a culture of shared citizenship are immense. With some extra effort, we could foster a kind of civic renewal that comes only once or twice a century. That is something that could unite us all. Read the Article >>
A nation of doers needs to do more
The benefits of a culture of shared citizenship are immense. With some extra effort, we could foster a kind of civic renewal that comes only once or twice a century. That is something that could unite us all. Read the Article >>
Op-ed: July 1, 2004 - Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In tandem, volunteers can do more
Read the Article >>
In tandem, volunteers can do more
Read the Article >>
Op-ed: December 2, 2003 - The Wasington Times
Building a culture of service
In the aftermath of September 11, President Bush sought to foster a culture of service, citizenship and responsibility. In his 2002 State of the Union, he asked every American to give at least two years of their lives in service to others. Read the Article >>
Building a culture of service
In the aftermath of September 11, President Bush sought to foster a culture of service, citizenship and responsibility. In his 2002 State of the Union, he asked every American to give at least two years of their lives in service to others. Read the Article >>
