In this story, Charles Dickens tackles the meaning of Christmas and the impact of greed on the individual and on the community. Originally published in 1843, "A Christmas Carol" has remained popular throughout the years. It challenges the reader to consider the importance of philanthropic...
This resource was developed in collaboration with the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) Youth Philanthropy Task Force powered by Michigan youth, CMF members, and nonprofit leaders. For links to all the resources,...
Open the door to your local police station and find out what they do to make your community a better place. A local police department serves communities by keeping people safe, enforcing laws, developing relationships, and making sure young people have the resources they need. Learn about this organization and how you can help.
In this book, Peter Reynolds writes a fable about what happens to one family’s table when life’s distractions get in the way of their time together. Violet remembers when her family gathered at the table to share stories and make memories. When the table disappears, Violet decides to act and...
Written by two award-winning authors, "All American Boys" shares the alternating voices of two students, one black and one white, after Rashad was beaten by a police officer and Quinn saw it happen. The narrative reveals different experiences and perspectives of diverse kids when the incident...
This is a story that takes place in one day from ten different perspectives. In the ten blocks around the school as it lets out one day, we meet kids and learn who are they when there are no adults listening in. The book shows we are all connected, and through even the smallest interactions...
A Simple Safe Service project from home: Give food as a gift to express care and love or donate food to community members and local nonprofits. Food has always been a gift we give from our hearts. When we visit family, friends, or community members, we often bring gifts of food, which is an expression of our time and talent - a one-of-a-kind gift. Whether we bring cookies to an elderly neighbor or donate canned goods to a shelter, food is a fundamental need and the first thing we think of in a crisis.
This book by poet and activist Amanda Gorman sings with optimism for our personal power to make a difference for a better world. It is a celebration of change through grace and vision. In this "children's anthem," Gorman inspires us to act with our personal gifts while collectively being the best we can be. With images of famous people and musical instruments, the artist illustrates the beauty of individuals of diverse backgrounds coming together as one in community. Amanda Gorman is an African American youth poet laureate, born with a speech impediment and sensitivity to sound, who is now speaking eloquently with hope that we can all take action for a better world.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Young people explore the idea that beauty is defined by the things that make us unique, resilient, powerful, and thoughtful of others. Collect many ideas together and share a message of empowerment to impact the culture of negative body image.
After a meaningful session or day together, a reflective writing prompt can help young people internalize, sort, or articulate their thoughts and feelings. A great tool for SEL and personal reflection, exit tickets provide a prompt to bring thoughts to a close before moving out the door. Designed to be handed to the facilitator as a "ticket" out the door, they may also be kept private if someone doesn't want to share their thoughts in the moment.