BE A CHANGEMAKER

Teens looking to make a difference will find inspiration as well as real-world strategies for realizing their dreams of being the change they want to see in the world.

Each chapter features a case study of a charity or organization started by preteens and teens. Initiatives include programs for social, environmental, personal and political change. Some programs, such as Free the Children, are huge, distributing millions of dollars and effecting change worldwide. Others focus on more local issues, such as neighborhood rejuvenation projects. However, this is far from just a collection of successful ventures. Chapters include information on raising money, organizing rallies, making pitches and gaining media attention. Others offer advice on creating business plans, dealing with failure and building organizations that last. The sheer breadth of topics included in this resource is astounding, but the book’s strength is in its specifics. Examples of media releases, meeting agendas and shopping lists focus on the practical application of visionary plans. A list of resources directs readers to websites, movies and other books for further research. One potential stumbling block is that teens living in a digital world might want a more media-rich resource than this guide offers.

Inspirational as well as practical.