Communities of Circumstance vs Communities of Choice

We all start in a community of circumstance. It’s the family we’re born into, the neighborhood we grow up in, and the opportunities—or lack of them—that surround us early on. These factors shape our early worldview, often without us even realizing it. But they don’t have to define us forever.

A community of choice is something different. It’s built around the values we adopt, the interests we pursue, and the people we choose to surround ourselves with. These are the friends we make, the mentors we seek out, the careers we chase, and the goals we set for our lives. Moving from a community of circumstance to a community of choice is one of the most empowering transitions a person can make.

That’s where education comes in. A good education doesn’t just pass on knowledge. It sharpens judgment, sparks curiosity, and opens doors. It gives young people the tools to explore the world beyond what they were born into. It helps them find “their people”—those who challenge them, support them, and share their passions.

This shift isn’t just important for kids in underserved or low-income areas. It’s essential for everyone. Even those born into privilege can feel confined by the expectations and norms of their environment. True growth comes from discovering who you are and choosing where you belong.

Education should be a bridge. Not only to better jobs or higher education, but to a life lived intentionally—surrounded by people who help you grow. Moving from circumstance to choice is what real empowerment looks like. And it’s what every child deserves a shot at.