Civic Engagement and Health

Study 1- Small Actions, Lasting Impact: How Early Civic Engagement Shapes Outcomes 15 Years Later

Emerging adulthood (ages 18–26) is a critical developmental period marked by identity exploration, shifting life paths, and increasing independence. Using data from the nationally representative Add Health survey, this study examined whether involvement in civic engagement during emerging adulthood was associated with positive health outcomes in middle adulthood.

For a concise summary of this study and its implications for policy and practice, please click here.

For a citable, peer-reviewed article on this study in the American Journal of Health Promotion, please click here.

Study 2- Service as a Health Intervention: How AmeriCorps Shapes Emerging Adulthood

Emerging adulthood (ages 18–26) is a formative period that can shape long-term health, well-being, and life trajectories. This study examined whether AmeriCorps service during this stage is associated with positive outcomes, and how program factors such as service intensity, benefits, and mentorship may influence members’ health and skill development.

For a concise summary of this study and its implications for policy and practice, please click here.

For a citable presentation on this study given to the America's Service Commissions National Service Training, please click here.

Note: a peer-reviewed article for this study is in progress and will be posted here!

*THIS MATERIAL IS BASED UPON WORK FUNDED BY THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND EVALUATION AT AMERICORPS UNDER GRANT NO. 22REANC001 THROUGH THE NATIONAL SERVICE AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT RESEARCH GRANT COMPETITION. OPINION OR POINTS OF VIEW EXPRESSED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHORS AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OFFICIAL POSITION OF, OR A POSITION THAT IS ENDORSED BY, AMERICORPS.