You’re never too young to make a difference and these inspirational stories show that young people can have a profound impact on the world. Teens the world over are mobilizing to make the world a better place, to protect the environment and save endangered wildlife species.
Julien Leitner
Julian started his charity with only $2. He started the Archimedes Alliance and asked 1 million people to donate just $2. “It hit me that I might not be able to do something on my own, but there has to be a billion other people like me who want to make a difference but feel they can’t,” said Leitner. “I thought, ‘What if everyone just pooled their resources?’”
He was right and he has managed to raise over $19,000 through online donations already. He has also given donors the opportunity to select the charity they would most like to support. When his total reaches the 2 million mark, he will donate the money to the charity with the most votes.
Leitner’s charitable concept originated from the Greek mathematician, Archimedes, who said, ‘Give me a lever long enough, and a place to stand, and I can move the Earth.’Leitner believes that asking a lot of people for a little donation is the way to go. Leitner is hoping that his campaign goes viral and that this helps to spread the word.
Lexi Allen
This spunky 16-year old from Sarasota started a charity called Art 4 Niños. As an artist herself, Lexi felt that all students should have access to art. She supplies impoverished children in South America with art supplies. You can make donations of money, art supplies or frequent flyer miles.
Cheryl Perera
This Toronto teen is the creator of the OneChild organization which supports victims of the international child sex trade. She started the organization when she way just 16 and has raised enough money to build two rehabilitation centers in the Philippines for children who have escaped the sex trade.
Hannah Tailor
Hannah started her first charity when she was just 8. The Ladybug Foundation has raised an incredible $2-million and has helped 54 shelters across Canada. Hannah said: “I honestly believe my generation is a hopeful one. And I believe very strongly in something my friend Steven said to me: ‘Don’t be afraid of homelessness. Be afraid of a society that doesn’t care.’ He was homeless at the time. Now he has a job, and a physical home as well. He’s now 25.”
These days, the younger students are leading the way when it comes to driving charitable causes. Instilling empathy and caring for community is a great way to make the world a better place. Encourage your students to get involved with volunteer opportunities and to help others wherever possible.
