The needs of our society are great and the resources for solving problems are few.  Future leaders must possess the skills to identify problems in the social fabric and weave new patterns of opportunities to address them.  Traditional political solutions are not the answer; the problems are far too complex for that.  Solutions must come from people who are committed to a better life for all and who believe change be accomplished if individuals work together. 

     The nexus of citizens helping citizens is reflected in the spirit of the Elliott Society.  Founded in the spring of 1993, the society takes name from Carl Elliott, Sr. for president of The University of Alabama’s Student Government Association, long-time congressman, and the first recipient of the Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.  The society’s chief purpose is to promote an ethic of civic responsibility by recognizing middle and high school students, university students and public- minded citizens who answer the call to community service.

     The Elliott Society is a University-based partnership composed of three groups.  The society's Pre-Collegiate Program works with middle and high school students who display a commitment to their community.  At the University level, the honors student leaders who implement change in their communities.  The Post-Graduate members are recognized community leaders who provide mentoring opportunities for each level of the society.  The society works as a whole to create a better Alabama by combining the resources of the campus, the classroom, and the community.

      Joining the efforts of these three groups allows students to develop the civic skills necessary to respect and understand the needs of the greater society.  Through community service, members not only return something tangible to those in need, but also learn first-hand how organizations and communities work.  In addition,  volunteer service encourages students to explore their personal interest, broaden their sense of civic responsibility and more importantly, gives students an opportunity to apply the theory they have learned to real problems and situations.

     Part of the University's mission is defined as "service."  With so many communities in Alabama hungry for  opportunities the University expects this state-wide partnership in community development to be most effective in nurturing the call to public service.  The Elliott Society receives support from the University's Community Service Center, a clearinghouse and volunteer coordination service.  Combined these organizations are the keys for increased citizen participation in Alabama and they demonstrate the growing importance of service at this institution.