Yes, there was expensive hoopla and glitz, but there were also moments of true inspiration. The Summit proposed to focus volunteering on mentoring, a healthy start, employable skills, a safe environment, and opportunities for youth to serve others. These are unquestionably appropriate, but they are also noncontroversial and deal with children in a vacuum. So, in the spirit of wanting to deploy volunteer energy towards a better life for all young people, I propose the following five additional goals for volunteering. Help parents earn a livable wage.
Volunteers already have a track record in helping new business owners.
Non-profits could move into abandoned factories and warehouses and develop cooperative industries. Mentor on the job. Because these new employees will undoubtedly need a lot of training and support, organize employee volunteers to mentor their new colleagues. Mentoring may mean help with coming in on time every day, budgeting or arranging child care. Tackle labor union resistance.