CEO Column

Thanksgiving, perhaps our most important holiday, was not always a holiday. Luckily for us, a small group of determined people spent many years advocating for it. Their leader was Sarah …

It feels unsettling, at times, to be situated in one of the most educated, affluent regions in the wealthiest country, while living and working in its capital city – one …

“When the student is ready, the teacher arrives.” We use this ancient saying a lot around Isles Youth Institute. But most people who talk about education – especially of underserved …

A problem well defined is half-solved. This timeless adage seems especially true for developing communities.  This summer, in just seven weeks, Isles, working with the Trenton Neighborhood Restoration Campaign and …

As you might imagine, spring is a bustling time here at Isles – especially this year as we leave behind a punishing winter.  Nearly 60 (and growing!) community and school …

Recently,  I was asked to give a talk at the United Nations.  Titled Sustainable Development: Rethinking Management of Development Organizations, you can read my comments below.  The talk will also …

Isles fosters self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities.  Why families?  Because despite all the changes to the “family,” it is still our strongest social unit.  Our families enormously impact each …

Fifty years ago this month, President Lyndon Johnson spoke of waging an “unconditional war on poverty.”  This watershed moment has given rise to another kind of war – a war …

In the classic holiday TV special A Charlie Brown Christmas, Charlie is sent out to find a tree.  He searches out the tree most in need of care and, upon arriving …

With the holiday season approaching, we count our blessings.  This year we are particularly grateful for the chance to do the work that we love, in places that we also …