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Artwork by Paul Chase at www.graphicguitars.com
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Kids can make a difference!
Sometimes, the world around us makes young people feel like they can't make a difference. Here are just a few examples of how some young people thought up creative solution to make a positive difference.
When Craig Kielburger was 12-years-old, his idea of childhood was changed forever when he read about a little boy in Pakistan, sold into slave labor for $16, who had been murdered. Craig was so affected by the story that he started his own organization, "Kids Can Free The Children," to fight for the rights of children and help stop child labor.
Since 1995, "Kids Can Free The Children" has grown into the largest network of children helping children in the world-100,000 members in 35 countries! Since 1999, "Kids Can Free the Children" has been able to build over 300 primary schools providing education to over 15,000 children around the world.
Craig has taken his crusade to fight for children's rights to Congress. He has met with Prime Ministers and queens, Mother Teresa and the Pope.
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Craig's mission is to bring freedom and education to children in some of the poorest places around the globe.
Craig says his most important message is that "Kids can make a difference."
Lauren Bothwell, Texas
To encourage people to donate to her toy, book and video drive eight-year old Lauren gave every supporter a handmade smiley face pin. The incentive worked: in one month, she collected more than 1,000 new and used items for a local hospital and family support center. "Giving sick kids something fun to do helps them feel better."
Matthew Cavedon, Connecticut
Since he designed a wheelchair-compatible swing at age seven, Matthew has helped build playgrounds across the country that are accessible to children of all abilities. "A playground is where kids learn leadership and cooperation. Every child deserves that". His latest effort: "Friendship Places," a universally accessible playground at the 12-year-old's former elementary school.
Michelle Brown, Ohio
While reading a newspaper, nine-year-old Michelle was startled by a photograph of the charred remnants of a school playground destroyed by arson. "Those people need me!" she proclaimed, and launched a penny drive that raised $2,000 to aid the rebuilding effort. "I'm just a kid, but I can make good stuff happen."
Kelsey & Julie Harness, Michigan
In a feat of balance and determination, cousins and best buddies Kelsy (12) and Julie Harness (13) rode their unicycles 21 miles to raise almost $900 for a local women's shelter. "We were pretty tired the next day, but feeling a little sore didn't matter because we did something that helped women who really needed it."
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Angela Serianni, Pennsylvania
K-9 officer Kudro can go about his crime fighting duties in greater safety, thanks to 11-year-old Angela. In just a month, here community fundraiser generated $650 to purchase protective body armor for the German Shepherd, who serves with the St. Mary's Police Department. "We all hope Kudro never needs his armor, but I'm glad it's there in case he does".
Greg Colker, Georgia
In one year, this 12-year-old has put 7 1/2 tons of food on the shelves of his local food pantry. Every week, Greg drops off an empty grocery bag with a "please help" letter at 100 homes in his community. A few days later, he picks up the now-full bags and delivers them to the local pantry. "Most people want to help others, I just make it easy for them".
Emily Lamb, Kansas
Few celebrations hold a candle to the birthday parties that 11-year-old Emily hosts for needy people in her community. Every month, she decorates, gathers donated cakes and gifts, and finds volunteers to serve refreshments. "No one should be alone on their birthday, it's a day when everyone ought to feel special".
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Amanda Sundberg, California
To help sufferers of the 9/11 tragedy, 11-year-old Amanda raised $2,500 by making and selling American flag pins. So far, she and her two sisters have transformed safety pins and beads into more than 450 tiny flags, proudly worn on their patrons' lapels. "I had to do something to help. I'm sure they'd do the same if it were me".
When Makenzie Snyder was 11-years-old and in the fourth grade she began a project that she named "Children to Children" to collect duffle bags, Beanie Babies, or stuffed animals for children in foster care. She started this project after hearing that some foster care children are given only a trash bag to put their belongings in when they move from home to home. They feel they are not cared about. So Makenzie decided to help them out. She collects duffle bags, small suitcases and backpacks to give to them to put their belongings in. "I put a Beanie Baby or stuffed animal in each duffle bag, so they have something to cuddle with so they will not be lonely". She also includes a note to let them know someone cares.
If there is an organization started by kids that you think should be featured here, contact Ann at ann@acousticoutreach.org
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