Carrying the Baton Forward
An educator reflects on renewed hope, intergenerational leadership, and the enduring work of peace
Inspired by the legacy of Anne Braden—a Louisvillian who stood firmly for justice even when it was difficult or unpopular—this reflection captures both the weight of today’s challenges and the enduring hope found in community. In a time when the work of justice can feel overwhelming, Laura Younkin shares how a recent gathering reminded her that the next generation is not only ready to lead, but already doing the work. What follows is a powerful, firsthand account of renewal, connection, and the continued importance of equipping young people with the skills to build a more peaceful world.
One of my role models is Louisvillian Anne Braden. She was a woman who lived what she believed. She knew right from wrong and she stuck with it, even if what she knew was right was unpopular or even illegal in her time. I have tried to do what is morally right, but I don’t always succeed and lately I’ve been discouraged. Life in America currently seems even more unjust than when I started marching in the 1980s. An event that Peace Education participated in on March 21 at the Muhammad Ali Center has revived my spirit.
“Passing the Baton: Youth Action Summit” was billed as “youth, young professionals, and community elders unite in an intergenerational experience of storytelling, skill-building, and action planning.” Peace Education was selected and asked to set up a table for the event and talk to people who were interested in finding out more about how to solve conflict peacefully. Gary Jackson, a fellow trainer, and I talked to community organizers, middle-schoolers, teenagers, activists and librarians. It was a day full of hope, compassion and intelligent conversation.
A group of four teenaged girls originally from Africa told us about their plans to go into the medical field because they feel they are not represented enough. They see a problem and they are devoting their lives to changing it. One middle school girl grew nostalgic while talking to us about the Peace Ed sessions she’d had at her elementary school. She remembered the “Friendly Formula,” also known as the I-Message, and talked about how she still uses it in her life.
A woman at the table next to us gave me a beautiful pep talk when I told her I felt like the world is an even harder place lately. She was a young woman probably less than half my age, but she reminded me the fight is never done. People must continue to work for the good so that evil does not win. She was optimistic, positive and excited about the battle.
Seeing so many good people doing all sorts of work to raise up our community was heartening. To know that Peace Education is a respected member of that community was gratifying. Making the world a more peaceful place is a fight that will continue. As the baton passes to another generation, Peace Education will continue to be part of that journey.
Mark your calendars and get ready to hit the greens for peace. Our annual Golf for the Greater Good scramble returns on June 26, 2026, at Shawnee Golf Course. This signature event brings together friends, supporters, and community partners for a day of fun, fellowship, and friendly competition—all in support of the Peace Education Program’s work to reduce violence and build positive relationships across Louisville.
Registration is open, click here to send an email for more information.
Connecting Classrooms to Community
Building the next generation of nonprofit leaders starts with meaningful, real-world connection. Recently, the Peace Education Program had the opportunity to step into that role, partnering with the University of Louisville to share its work with both undergraduate and graduate students.
Through interactive sessions, honest dialogue, and collaborative learning, these visits offered students a firsthand look at how conflict resolution, community engagement, and youth empowerment come to life beyond the classroom—while also opening the door to new ideas, partnerships, and future leadership opportunities.