This resource was developed in collaboration with the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) Youth Philanthropy Task Force powered by Michigan youth, CMF members, and nonprofit leaders. For links to all the resources,...
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Use your voice to compose letters to your state representatives advocating change for an issue of your choice.
These Service Sparks guides provide directions for generous actions that encourage youth voice and promote the common good. Each project includes step-by-step instructions.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Respond to a traumatic event or loss by sending words of encouragement and empathy to victims or survivors to let them know you care and they are not alone.
Open the door to a local nonprofit that connects people over 60 to people and services to live a healthy, independent life. The Commission on Aging is a resource that promotes intergenerational relationships and support for people who need meals brought to their homes or opportunities for fun and gathering. Learn about this organization and how you can help.
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.
Eating well, being active, and meeting people are all part of having a healthy lifestyle and a healthy community. When diverse people come together to have active fun, they build relationships and good habits for a lifetime. Nonprofits that encourage this positive movement care about making the community stronger through biking, running, playing games, or hiking trails. What organizations in your community bring people together around outdoor activities?
Open the door to the local beekeeping association or apiary and find out how beekeepers are saving pollinators and addressing the need of environmental sustainability. A beekeeper takes care of bees and helps individuals and communities set up sustainable beehives. They educate people on the importance of bees and involve youth in learning about habitats, financial sustainability, and the importance of being part of a supportive community. Learn about this organization and how you can help.
Open the door to the center for the blind and visually impaired and find out how advocates for people who are blind make your community a better place. People who are blind or visually impaired are just like sighted people. The best thing we can do is seek to understand how to communicate and be respectful of their abilities and interests. Learn about this organization and how you can help.
Every community has fires and other emergencies that require help from firefighters trained to put out fires, rescue people, and assist in medical emergencies. They also have machines and an adequate water supply to put out fires. Some communities have volunteer fire departments, and others hire career firefighters. Learn about this organization and how you can help.