Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
In January 2016, the Franklin Project — a program of the Aspen Institute — merged with ServiceNation at Be The Change and the Service Year Exchange, incubated by the National Conference on Citizenship, to form Service Year Alliance.
Service Year Alliance is working to make a year of paid, full-time service — a service year — a common expectation and opportunity for all young Americans. A service year before, during, or after college — or as a way to get back on track — gives young people the chance to develop their skills, make an impact on the lives of others, and become the active citizens and leaders our nation needs. Expanding service years has the power to revitalize cities, uplift and educate children at risk, and empower communities struggling with poverty. It can unite the most diverse nation in history, binding people of different backgrounds through common cause. Service Year Alliance is asking nonprofits, higher education institutions, cities and states, companies and foundations, policymakers of both parties, and people of all ages to join the movement.
A joint venture of Be The Change and the Aspen Institute, Service Year Alliance is chaired by General Stanley McChrystal, and Alan Khazei and John Bridgeland serve as vice chairs.
