Time Magazine has a Special Report this week making the case for National Service. The centerpiece is Richard Stengel’s well done argument for increasing opportunities for service in America. Americans are at once disappointed with government officials and services – which, among other things, have failed to ensure excellent public schools or rebuild New Orleans – and incredibly active as volunteers trying to address the great challenges facing the country. Perhaps it is time, Stengel says, to harness this civic-spirit and use it to improve the American Republic.

Once again, to shamelessly plug our own idea, Professor Warren and I have argued that we should do just that. We can encourage young people to take part in addressing the challenges facing our country and the world – and to do it without forcing them. Why not give young people the option of getting college loans forgiven for participating in public service? Not only will more young people serve their country, improving vital services and building a stronger national community, but they’ll also get a debt-free college education, improving future employment opportunities and preventing many of the financial challenges we discuss here so often. This is an idea whose time has come.