You would be a rare person if you were not concerned about the mess (system of interrelated problems) that threatens the quality of life of all Americans today. Abject poverty, homelessness, violent crime, drug abuse, too many children without the basics of food and shelter, schools that are more like war zones than places of learning, children growing up in fractured families without the guidance and community support needed to learn the skills and values that are essential to become responsible members of society — these are just a few of the more troublesome issues that reach into every community in our country.

Our Beliefs

• The American Dream is not dead, but for some of us, it feels like it. We need to transform our communities into safe, healthy places for all. We can pursue our dreams without damaging the earth's ability to support us and future generations.
• We are all in this together. If any of us is to have the kind of safe, healthy communities we would like to live, work, and raise children in, we must work together to create these conditions for everyone.
• The transformation we are seeking requires the active participation of many people and many groups. The total task is complex, but what each person needs to do is simple—and within the capability of virtually everyone.
• As a society, we need to recapture the mindsets of self-responsibility and mutual responsibility that are part of our heritage.
• As members of the world community, we need to model the kind of good citizen behavior we expect from people in every corner of the world. Our future and the future of the world depends on it.

What can one person do to make a difference?

• First do no harm — or at least as little as possible. Examine your personal lifestyle and be willing to change if necessary.
• Keep learning. Reclaim the thirst for learning you had as a child. The times demand it of us all.
• Help your Neighbor. Be aware of your neighbor's existence. Affirm and acknowledge their right to be. Take account of their wants and needs as you pursue your own goals.
• Be a good steward. Do your part to care for your corner of the world. Join others to extend your reach, and remember, everything is connected.
• Know that you matter. It's normal to feel that the scope and depth of our problems is overwhelming and beyond our individual ability to make a difference. Don't fall victim to that reaction. Make your life count.

Take a look at a personal view.

Take a look at a systems view.

Here's how we can change the world for the better.

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