This past week, activists from all over the country descended onto D.C. to gather together and help promote change. MCON (Millennial Engagement Conference) generated conversations as the attendees heard from speakers who have developed powerful solutions to the problems our world and communities face. Here are 5 (of the many) takeaways from MCON 2017:

1. Writing letters creates change.

"Writing letters feels archaic in 2017, and yet... it works. They can get people out of jail and change lives." -Margaret Huang, Amnesty International

Activism is more important now than ever in order to protect our rights, so put that pen to paper. Amnesty International has helped get an individual out of jail who was accused of homosexuality in Nigeria and an individual who stood up against corrupt police in Mexico.

2. We waste a lot of food.

"We send 40% of food that could be eaten to the landfill."- Diana Aviv, CEO of Feeding America

Starbucks has repurposed 400,000 meals and intends to save 50 million meals in the next five years... that's a lot of meals. 72 billion pounds of food go to waste each year. Lets save the food people. Diana Aviv of Feeding America has helped partner businesses like Starbucks with local food banks and has minimized food waste in many places.

3. We each affect the environment.

"I realized I wasn't part of the solution, I was the problem."- Rob Greenfield, Environmental Activist

Start with one small positive change you can make in your lifestyle, like using recyclable bags. You make a difference in the environment with your actions, leave a positive impact. Rob Greenfield has a passion for the environment and has shown this through projects such as wearing all the trash he created in one month and biking across the country with complete sustainability.

4. Spend money at organizations that promote positive change.

"Spend your money at companies who give a damn."- Michael Lastoria, CEO of &pizza

By spending your money at businesses and organizations who are working to help make a difference, you're funding efforts to make our communities better and stronger. &pizza works to better the community and build up leaders in the workplace.

5. Never underestimate the power of a few committed people.

"The most important characteristic of an entrepreneur is the grit and willingness to persist."- Adam Garone, Movember

Adam Garone helped found Movember, which is changing the face of men's health. Movember is now in 21 countries and has raised 75 million dollars. They've funded countless research for men's health. If you have a passion for a cause, there's nothing stopping you.

If you have a passion for a cause, keep in mind these 5 takeaways, and go change the world. I know you can.