Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Plan an event that recognizes and celebrates the variety of cultures in your community. Invite the entire community to attend in order to learn about and connect with their neighbors.
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.
Young people can be civic actors, philanthropists, and community builders...but only if we get out of their way! If we give youth the tools, permission, and support, they will make a positive impact on our families, schools, and communities, now and throughout their lives. This "Kids are Philanthropists, Too!" podcast and discussion guide is for people of all ages to explore important social challenges with kids as your guides.
After reading about historical figures who have taken philanthropic action related to justice, youth write a narrative about a more recent (young) philanthropist who took action for social justice.
People with anxiety, mental illness, or physical or neurological disabilities can spend time with animals giving and receiving love and care. Sometimes therapy dogs are simply present for petting. Riding a horse can help people build muscle and balance. Learn about this organization and how you can help.
The "Open Doors to Your Community" project is a virtual door that guides young people to the actual door of local resources so they can learn about their community, take action, and build connections and understanding of their roles in community.
Learners describe good nutritional practices and make a plan to eat healthy.
This book tells how artist Maya Lin formed the idea for her most famous artwork, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. She thought carefully about the meaning of the work, the form, and how she wanted people to feel.
This project is a simulation meant to guide participants through the process of organizing a protest/demonstration. Participants are asked to identify a problem they want to solve and then plan a nonviolent protest/demonstration while being conscious of safety, resources, community norms, and ethical behavior. The hope is that this activity might inspire the next Greta Thunberg or Malala Yousafzai to take action and create change!
