A New Architecture for National Service

National service has long been one of America’s most powerful civic institutions, mobilizing millions of people in service to their communities. But the challenges of this moment demand that we think about it differently, not as a vehicle for volunteerism, but as a coordinated, cross-sector response to the complex problems that our country is facing right now. Communities need support that existing systems cannot provide alone. At the same time, a generation of young adults is searching for purpose, economic footing, and connection. The good news is that the infrastructure to respond already exists, and leaders across the country are beginning to outline a new architecture for what national service can become.

The Youth Mental Health Corps (YMHC) is an early demonstration of the future of national service. Co-designed by the Schultz Family Foundation and Pinterest in partnership with AmeriCorps and state service commissions nationwide, YMHC responds to two converging gaps: communities facing a youth mental health crisis and severe behavioral health workforce shortages, and young adults who need real pathways into meaningful careers.

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