We examine the Core Values of American Democracy and discuss their importance and where we are exposed to them and practice them throughout life.
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Unit: Power to the People through Action
We define the nonprofit, or third, sector and explain why it is important as an alternative power structure.
Unit: Small Steps; Great Journeys
Small personal actions can be first steps in a life of service and civic engagement. Voting and civic action are small examples of responsible citizenship. Advocating for what we value is a demonstration of a citizen's rights.
Unit: What's My Civic Responsibility?
The learners define and explain the importance of civic engagement and responsible citizenship. They explore the reasons why people may hesitate to become involved in solving problems and consider ways in which they can be "part of the solution" rather than a "part of the problem."
Unit: Tote Challenge
Young people investigate the problems caused by plastic shopping bags, then propose solutions to address the problems. This lesson prompts teams to design a reusable shopping tote out of an old T-shirt using engineering, problem-solving, creativity, and communication. They take action...
Unit: Encouraging Community Engagement
Young people learn about the variety of ways citizens can become active participants in the community: political parties, interest groups, voting, and providing public service.
Unit: Social Reformer—Jane Addams
Jane Addams is a model philanthropist in action, improving many situations through volunteerism and advocacy, not only in the city of Chicago, but also at state, national and international levels.
Unit: Exploring Nonprofit Career Opportunities
Learners explore the variety of job opportunities available in the nonprofit sector, many of which may use their skills and interests. In the nonprofit sector, the work is meaningful because it focuses on a mission to make change for the better.
Unit: My Water, Our Water
Participants discuss the attributes and benefits of local water resources and ecosystems. They identify the interrelatedness of humans and the environment in the book A River Ran Wild, and discuss how the way we treat the water impacts our lives.
Unit: Philanthropy—Essential to a Democratic Society
Learners recognize the value of nonprofit organizations and identify how nonprofits meet citizen needs when government can't.