Introduce the folksinger Woody Guthrie and his legendary song This Land Is Your Land. His songs were written for everyone to get involved in their community. Learners understand that it is the responsibility of everyone to help take care of each other and the Earth.

We learn about the ancient Aztec culture in Mexico. 

Learners listen to the lyrics of the song "Hero" by Mariah Carey. They explore the feelings and actions that go along with being a hero.

By reading about her life and her work, students will understand how Mary Eliza Church Terrell’s writing and activism brought about change for African Americans and women.

Through discussion of the book The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss, we learn about tolerance and the value of diversity in community. 

Read and compare a variety of literature to explore motivations and impact of young people taking action and helping others. We recognize that we all have time, treasures and/or talents to share.

This lesson guides youth to take take action with a group. They plan and carry out a tikkun olam project of their choosing to help the local community.

Working in small groups, learners match the classic hero traits to an activist who took social action for the common good.

Participants read about the philanthropic traditions of early African-American culture and place the values of giving in a hierarchy circle.

The young people reflect upon themselves as community members and use descriptive language to give themselves meaningful names.