Stories of Inspiration: Molly Messner

Many of us can remember a moment in time when we were afforded an opportunity that broadened our perspective, or inspired us to do something great. At the National Youth Leadership Council, we provide opportunities like these for youth. In the fourth and final installment of this series, we bring you a reflection by Molly Messner, who was inspired by the words of one of her peers during this year's National Service-Learning Conference® in Atlanta, GA.

Molly is a senior at Henry Harry D. Jacobs High School in Algonquin, IL, and was recently elected to NYLC's board of directors.

Dear Friends,

"Finding your passion. Finding what you're good at. Then finding a need in the world that you can apply it to. That's what it's all about. It's this unselfish attitude, combined with the knowledge that we are both taught and innately given, that results in true service-learning. And for our youth - there's no age requirement, nor is there an age limit for service. If you're not already doing so, start now."

April 6-9, 2011 marks four of the most incredible days of my life, when these words were delivered during the opening plenary of the National Service-Learning Conference by high school senior, Justice Walker.

Justice's speech echoed the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., and affected every person in that ballroom. Thinking back on it moves me to tears. He represented every young emerging leader in the crowd who is trying to make a difference in society. His speech portrayed one of the most important messages - one that epitomized the intention of the conference: we all have a responsibility to help create positive global change.

After seeing Justice deliver his speech, I began to understand that although my peers and I are considered youth, we have the power to rise up from the standards placed upon us by society and be a part of something greater. Being surrounded by so many youth leaders has changed my life in so many ways it is almost immeasurable.

Molly Messner

Please consider making a year-end tax-deductible donation to support NYLC's youth programming, and continue to provide leadership opportunities like this for young people.

Happy holidays from the staff of NYLC!