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 for the common good by using and sharing their project and by educating the community about problems and solutions to the plastic bag crisis.
Welcome youth into collaboration and innovation on activities and practices that serve the community. The first guide gives general tips, and the three project guides provide models of practice. The guides are designed for educators, parents, youth leaders, foundations, nonprofits, and community collaborators.
These videos, activities, ideas, toolkits, and discussion starters support a year of youth group engagement. The content may be used in any order.
A youth serving on a board or committee may have many competing demands for their time and attention.
Young people discuss and debate the issues related to ethical consumerism and the common good, and consider how their spending habits reflect their values.
Discuss and debate the issues related to fast fashion, its impact on people and the planet, and how the issue can be addressed to promote responsibility and the common good.
Every day, we make choices about what to eat based on our health and what we like and can afford. As global citizens who care about the good of all, we can also be aware of making food choices based on our impact on an interconnected system.
When you are interested in taking action to make a change, it is helpful to first get a clear picture of what resources exist in your community and where the gaps are. This activity helps young people plot specific resources on a map, which helps identify patterns and connections and builds evidence and partnerships for taking steps to make a change. change.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Philanthropy is often equated with giving money, but every culture has its own rich tradition of giving, which may look like sacrificial generosity, community support, networking, or speaking up for necessary changes. What generosity do you see in your own family and neighborhood? In this activity, youth look for and capture the stories of philanthropy that express loving and powerful cultural practices.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Add a variety of cultural holidays to your annual calendar to raise awareness of the variety of ways people celebrate their cultural traditions. Learning about other cultures helps us see the beauty in our similarities and differences. We can reflect on whether there are core values in every culture and how our differences add interest and strength to our community.
