Act Now
Act Now is a bi-partisan initiative to strengthen communities in their efforts to reimagine their future by creating opportunities for young people to thrive. Act Now works with youth and communities through Listening Sessions, Breaking Bread events, and Justice Circles – taking action to promote belonging, meaning, well-being, and purpose.
The SJI is working with Act Now on their Every Day Counts program, which seeks to address chronic absenteeism in public schools. Absenteeism is a growing problem in schools across the United States, and is generally defined as missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason. Chronic absenteeism and/or truancy puts students at risk for teen pregnancy, substance use, increased chances of involvement in the criminal justice system, as well as being linked to worse health and employment outcomes. Partnering with communities in local school districts, the SJI is developing and evaluating the impact of interventions for community members to help keep young people in school.
Freedom Fast
Act Now and the SJI are also both partner organizations for the Freedom Fast.
The Freedom Fast is a nationwide invitation to pause together, rooted in history. In 2026, on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, people across the country will give up something ordinary — food, technology, convenience, or another daily comfort — to make space for reflection, dialogue, and service.
This is not a partisan event. It is not tied to any political position, faith tradition, or philosophy.
It is a civic practice open to all — a chance to pause long enough to see one another again, not as opponents, but as neighbors. The Freedom Fast gives people a chance to reflect, reset, and strengthen together.
Contact Us
Social Justice Initiative
Darlyne Bailey, Ph.D.
Founder & Executive Director of the Social Justice Initiative
Katherine E. McBride Professor Emeritus & Dean Emeritus of the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research
Email: sji@brynmawr.edu
Phone: 610-526-5180