For Kids Only: Big and Small Ideas to Make a Difference

Anyone can make a difference – whether it’s through education, advocacy or community service, you can make a difference no matter what your age.  You can pick an issue and start a club at school, help clean up a local park, donate to a soup kitchen or shelter, you can even write a letter to an elected official.  Keep reading for ideas and resources.

Advocacy at Any Age

Advocacy is the process by which you can make your voice heard on behalf of the issues that matter most.  Speaking out on important issues is a critical part of the democratic process.  Policy makers count on ideas and information from their constituents, using that input to form laws and polices.  If you think a proposal misses the mark or a new law is needed, share your ideas.

How to Contact an Elected Official

How to Organize a March or Rally

Using Social Media to Advocate for Change

Social Media Transformed Teens’ Ability to Build Activist Movements Online

11 Teens Using Social Media for Good Deeds

Youth Activist Toolkit by Advocates for Youth

Youth Activism Project

JCUA Youth Engagement

 

Tikkun Olam

In modern Jewish circles, Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) has become almost synonymous with community service and social justice.  Many of us have grown up with service – volunteering with friends and family or coming up with an original mitzvah project in anticipation of a b’nai mitzvot.  Others may have never had this opportunity before.  Ether way, community service benefits both the giver and the receiver and no age is too young or too old to begin volunteering!

NCJW Community Service Projects to do with Family and Friends

Volunteer Opportunities in the Chicagoland Jewish Community

70 Community Service Project Ideas

20 Easy Ways to Volunteer in Your Community

How to Find Virtual Volunteer Opportunities

10 Great Volunteer Ideas for Kids

JUF Camp TOV