Learning about issues and using our voice is a right and a civic responsibility and vital to a healthy democracy. Teaching youth at the earliest ages about using their voice prepares them to be civically engaged as adults. It teaches them to learn more about issues and see each person as a valued member of society with an equal vote and an important voice.
A passion for service can begin at a very young age. “The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver” chronicles the inspirational life of George Washington Carver. This beautifully illustrated book goes beyond Carver’s acclaim as an African American scientist, celebrating his...
Video Clip and Discussion Guide: Amanda Gorman, the U.S. Youth Poet Laureate, shared this poem "Earthwise" in 2018 on the stage in front of other climate activists. Through discussion, youth examine environmental stewardship and our role as caring citizens.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Read aloud to someone from literature that inspires and promotes conversation. The act of reading to someone younger is gift enough - it gives attention, joy, and caring - but we add to the service when the book encourages us to talk about important ideas that build community.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Share your knowledge and ideas for action about an issue you care about through writing and illustrating an ABC book. This format is great for teaching younger children (or anyone) about the vocabulary of inclusion and respect. Alternatively, write lyrics to a song and perform it to share your passion.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Contact a local animal shelter to find out what their needs are. It is easy to make comfort toys and blankets for the animals who are waiting to be adopted.
What can young people do in their role in civil society as they decide whether and how to get involved? At Learning to Give, we want to help youth learn about and practice taking action for the common good. The following explorations and ideas help to involve voice and action to make a difference.
Using the inspiration of Amanda Gorman’s poem “Earthrise,” participants consider what it means to act in ways that honor the Earth. Individuals identify and publicly commit to take action that works to help humans and nature flourish together.
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What does it mean to live philanthropically with our “treasure”? In what ways do we impact nature through purchasing decisions? Participants will develop their understanding of philanthropy and corporate social responsibility. Through researching the ways companies engage in corporate social responsibility, participants explore the impact of individuals making purchasing choices based on environmental sustainability and ethics.
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Through analyzing a Ted Talk by Robin Wall Kimmerer, participants develop their understanding of what it means to respond with gratitude to the gifts from the Earth. Participants expand their awareness of the interdependent relationship between humans and nature. Kimmerer motivates and inspires us to be grateful recipients of Earth's gifts.
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