In“The Librarian of Basra: A true story from Iraq,” Jeanette Winter brings to light the courage, innovation, and strength of a Muslim woman who saved 30,000 library books from bombing during the war in the Middle East. Alia Muhammad Baker organized her community to shelter books in...
Carole Lindstrom’s book “We are Water Protectors” conveys a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all living things. The Indigeneous people in this story act as both teachers and courageous advocates on behalf of clean water, inviting us all to take action and stand together....
Women around the world face challenges at all levels of income, education, global development, and age. While the world is slowly becoming more accepting of gender being a spectrum of expression and identity, anyone not clearly defined frequently faces judgment, discrimination, hate, even violence for embracing their true self in a world that doesn’t understand or tolerate ambiguity. This toolkit provides information, advocacy tools, lessons, and project ideas to help young people take action to change the worldview of gender and demand equity.
The guide below provides activities and discussion questions to explore how we like to be seen and how we show respect for and believe in others. This is a story about protecting and cherishing the uniqueness of each child. It is also the story of a child who was thought to be a girl at birth and was really a boy. His family is loving and supportive of the journey in a way that shows us all how to love and cherish each other's journeys, especially the potentially unfamiliar journey of child who is transgender.
We are taught to love all humans and help others, but as a society we tend to be less empathetic when we come face-to-face with someone experiencing homelessness and poverty. Breaking the general stereotypes associated with homelessness and poverty with information and ideas may greatly help individuals who are experiencing such struggles. This toolkit provides information, activities, and resources to help youth use their voice, heart, and hands to take big and small actions for a meaningful purpose.
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...
Through poetic words and beautiful illustrations, a young Asian girl celebrates what makes her unique. This book is a gentle story about self-love and the power of family in shaping our identity. Reading this story together provides an opportunity to listen generously and celebrate each person's unique beauty and gifts.
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.