We look at the Society of Friends/Quakers and describe how this group promoted the common good. The Quakers pushed for religious freedom and freedom of choice, which are Core Democratic Values. As a group, they formed organizations to promote social change in the areas of slavery,...
We learn how different groups coming together for the good of all established the Mayflower Compact. This brief agreement was the first document of its kind designed to bring a community together to focus on the common good. This may be a model for a group agreement written by the...
In this second lesson about Jane Addams, we learn about the impact of her philanthropic work and connect it to the needs of our communities today. Young people discuss voluntary actions they can take inspired by 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.
Learners explore the contributions and recommendations of Benjamin Franklin as a person who engaged in active citizenship.
The children tell stories about their family memories and the special “memory items” brought from home. (See Lesson One: Traveling Back in Time.) They meet their senior friend in person or through writing and share and compare memories.
The children brainstorm ways to give and share to bring cheer to someone.
With guidance from a local environmental agency, prepare the youth in advance of volunteering their time to clean up a lake or river for the common good. Arrange a field trip that includes picking up trash and recording the data.
Purpose: To share with students how a successful local nonprofit was formed and how laws have been changed as a result of its advocacy work. In the case of Road Safe America, the nonprofit's advocacy work affected laws dealing with the trucking industry.
...
Youth Activity: Students brainstorm time, talent, and treasure examples that they have to offer/give. The activity will ask each person to think of some ways he/she can generate money.
...