This article is part of a series of stories covering Kettering’s second annual Dayton Democracy Summit. The event was held on October 27, 2025, at Sinclair College in Dayton, Ohio.  

The work of democracy in community is both challenging and rewarding, yet Kettering's Dayton Democracy Fellows remain committed. In the panel, "Creating Hope in Hard Times: Building Our Shared Future," 2025 Dayton Democracy Fellows Robbie Brandon, Tara Campbell, Larry Hayden, Lake Miller, and moderator Nick Hrkman shared what gives them hope while democracy is under strain and discussed the importance of staying connected and engaged. 

Finding Hope—and Avoiding the Temptation to Check Out 

When asked what gives them hope, panelists often pointed to the next generation. Miller responded that while adults see being told no is a roadblock, youth look for ways to overcome barriers. He finds inspiration from their passion and creativity. Campbell agreed, observing that youth are actively working "to keep hope alive." 

But keeping hope alive can be difficult, especially when it seems like all news is negative. The panelists admitted that they are often tempted to check out. Brandon and Hayden find grounding in their faith. Brandon emphasized that "when you check out, when you're worn down, and when you're beaten up to no end, community is really important," providing a "soft landing" and sharing in the struggle. 

Seeing the Connection Between Personal and Community Issues 

Hrkman asked how to resist focusing only on personal or family issues over the larger shared needs of community. "If you don't take care of your [family], how can you go out and take care of anyone else?" asked Campbell. She highlighted the importance of self-care so "we can show up for our community." Hayden connected his family and community, saying, "My community is my family. My community has helped my grandson and my daughters to understand what this world is gonna be like and prepare them." 

Panelists shared examples of community challenges. Hayden recounted his work with the Dayton Tenant Union to force a landlord to fix a frequently broken elevator in an 11-story apartment complex. Brandon's organization, Sunlight Village, helped a family connect to resources after their son was discharged from the hospital without a plan following a gunshot wound—work threatened by spending cuts. Campbell struggles to find affordable, habitable housing for clients due to overpriced, substandard homes and a lack of rent caps. Miller acknowledged that overcoming "systems issues" is slow and requires long-term investment. "As we talk about funding, we need to work creatively together to identify ways that we can create commitments for long-term investment within our own community," he said. 

Where Do You Find Comfort? 

The final question asked where panelists found comfort when at their lowest point. Brandon turns to her faith and the anticipation of new opportunities for the community of West Dayton. Miller urged the audience to claim time for taking care of themselves, noting he and his wife bought an RV to travel and disconnect. Campbell, recovering from the simultaneous loss of her mother, pneumonia, a fall, and long-term COVID effects, found comfort in God, her sister, and her community. Hayden, mourning his twin brother, also found peace in God and working within his community.