DoSomething.org Promotes Youth Activism
Website Provides Resources for Helping Kids Help Others
May 14, 2009
DoSomething.org is a youth-centered, not for profit organization that uses the internet to reach and support kids who want to make a difference. They offer a wide array of information, ideas, resources, and other tools to provide that support.
Their message to young people is this: “DoSomething believes you have the power to make a difference. It is our aim to inspire, support and celebrate a generation of doers: people who see the need to do something, believe in their ability to get it done, and then take action. At DoSomething.org we provide the tools and resources for you to convert your ideas and energy into positive action. Be part of a generation of doers.” (DoSomething.org, May 2009.)
Finding a Youth Service Project
Young people who have some idea about what they might be interested in may be ready to use the “Act Now” matrix. Users answer four simple questions about what they want to do (basically the what, who, where, and when), and hit “search”. They are then presented with a list of possible ideas that fit within the parameters they chose. The suggestions include both “Easy ideas” and “Action Guides,” which are more involved projects. “Action Guide” ideas are clickable links that take users to specific, step by step ideas for making their project a reality.
Youth who want to explore a variety of options before committing to a project may first want to check out the “What’s Your Thing Page” to zero in on an area they might be interested in learning more about. Causes include animal welfare, the environment, education, international human rights, poverty, and violence and bullying. Users can further explore each of these areas, learning about various issues and clarifying their goals. For example, youth wanting to explore the area of “environment” can learn about global warming, pollution, organic living, factory farming, wildfires, and many other issues. This part of the site is particularly helpful for kids who know they want to do something, but aren’t yet sure what.
Grants Help Fund Service Projects
DoSomething.org offers several grants to teens that need help funding their ideas. They are currently accepting applications for Disaster Grants. These projects, focusing on disaster preparedness or relief, are worth $500 and are accepted on a rolling basis. Also available are weekly Do Something Grants, also worth $500, for community service projects. The site also maintains a database of grants available through other agencies and companies, complete with eligibility, application, and other pertinent information.
Developing Youth Activism Skills
The “Social Action Training” page contains an easy to follow blueprint for youth projects, from start to finish. Here, kids will learn about things like marketing and branding, using technology to promote their project, fundraising, legal issues, and much more. Do Something even sponsors a “Social Action Boot camp” young people can attend for a day of training and networking with other like-minded young people. This page can be accessed from the “Our Programs” page.
Youth Inspiring Youth
Perhaps the coolest and most inspiring part of the site is the “Projects” page, where kids can post info about their ongoing projects and read stuff posted by others. This page reads like a blog, with embedded videos, links, maps, and updates. Entries include a description of the problem, why it’s important, a plan of action, and info about how others can become involved.
More DoSomething Tools
DoSomething.org offers resources for developing service clubs, and searches for local volunteer opportunities. Kids can subscribe to newsletters, take part in polls, participate in forums, and learn about current campaigns. There is even a “rants/raves” section where kids can upload videos in a “confessional booth for ranting about a cause that matters.”
DoSomething.org is a fantastic resource for kids who want to change the world. Not only does it offer inspiration and ideas, it also provides a blueprint for helping kids make their vision into reality. Any teen who wants to serve will certainly find something here.
For more on helping teens make a difference, check out Empowering Youth by Kelly Curtis, Interview with Youth Activist Dallas Jessup, or Just Yell Fire empowers Teen Girls.
 |
