Gen Z stands to play a vital role in shaping the future of Sertoma, bringing fresh perspectives, energy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. As digital natives, they are highly attuned to social issues and eager to make a meaningful impact in their communities. This is right on par with Sertoma’s most core value – Service to Mankind. How can your club find ways to engage with them?

Gen Z is the most diverse generation in modern American history. They highly value inclusion and are more likely to actively avoid organizations that do not recognize the need to actively pursue membership bases that reflect their community. This includes but is not limited to race, gender identity, ethnicity and sexual orientation.

Traditional organizations are being challenged by this shift. For instance, sororities and fraternities are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit new members in the face of sexism, classism and racism accusation found on many college campuses. These panhellenic bodies are often perceived as organizations built on exclusion rather than inclusion. Therefore, it is important for volunteer groups to be mindful of this perception in their own organizations if they want to effectively engage young adults.

On the other side of the coin, Gen Z is much more likely to support unions than older generations were at their same age. Between economic uncertainty and forward-thinking attitudes, they are highly interested in organizing and leading union campaigns in their workplaces. They see it as an effort for the greater good of their cohort where all employees can benefit. These values have high potential to translate to service.

Gen Z’s willingness to join membership organizations is also reflected on school campuses. Nearly 70% of students in four countries (including the US) report that they belonged to clubs and membership chapters, according to recent research from XYZ University. When looking toward the future, 54% of students indicate that they would be interested in joining a membership organization (service club, association/society, etc.) after graduation, with an additional 15% being undecided. That means nearly 70% are potential recruits for organizations like Sertoma.

 Now, what about their opinions on service specifically? Well, the news is once again better than many believe**:

• 84% support nonprofit organizations, charities or causes in some way.
• 70% say impact reporting is likely to motivate increased giving.
• 59% are already active donors.
• 42% say they tend to engage spontaneously with causes and organizations.

It’s clear that young people act, they pay attention, they give, and most of all, they care. Their engagement in Sertoma's mission can help strengthen our clubs’ outreach, enhance their relevance, and someday drive innovative solutions to the challenges faced by those with hearing loss and communication disorders. By tapping into Gen Z's passion and creativity, Sertoma can foster a new generation of leaders committed to service and inclusion.

**Source: Blackbaud Institute