Carlisle Named A “Best Community For Young People”

Dickinson resides in the heart of the Carlisle community

October 21, 2011

Photos by Carl Socolow '77

 In recognition of the innovative and effective work being done in communities across the nation to ensure a bright future for young people, America’s Promise Alliance announced the 2011 winners of its 100 Best Communities for Young People. More than 300 communities from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico were nominated for the fifth edition of the competition.

Carlisle, a first-time recipient, received the award for ensuring that its young people have access to the resources they need to be successful in school, at home and in the community. Programs that were noted for providing educational, health, social and emotional support for young people included Success By 6, Carlisle Parks & Recreation Board, the Junior Police Academy, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region and Hope Station. Also included was The United Way of Carlisle & Cumberland County, which provides funding to 44 programs throughout the community, almost half of which focus on youth.

The award comes with a $2,500 grant that will be distributed to qualified individuals and organizations.

Dickinson resides in the heart of downtown Carlisle, just blocks from the town square. Dickinson students actively engage with the Carlisle community and are able to gain valuable experience while contributing to the betterment and well-being of the town through community-based volunteerism, research, coursework and internships. One example is Montgomery Service Leaders, an intensive leadership development program that integrates academic work with local service placements. The college also provides extensive service opportunities, ranging from short-term to year-long experiences, as well as service trips to rural, urban and international locations.  All these opportunities help prepare students to become informed, engaged citizens that are poised to take leadership roles in their lives and careers.  

America’s Promise Alliance was founded in 1997 by retired Gen. Colin Powell and today is chaired by Alma Powell. It is a cross-sector partnership of more than 400 corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and advocacy groups that are committed to improving lives and changing outcomes for children. It has made a top priority of ensuring that all young people graduate from high school ready for college, work and life.

Read more about the many academic, research, internship and service Community Engagement opportunities at Dickinson College.