What can you do to make a difference and
get involved
in
your community?
There are so many ways
that you can make a difference. Look around your community to see
what needs to be done. Think about things that are
important to you, things that you care about, and get involved in these
things in order to make Hancock County a stronger community.
Principles for Young People
Don’t believe negative messages.
There are lots of negative messages about young people: “Kids should
be seen and not heard.” “This hurts me more than it hurts you.”
“You’ll understand when you are older.” Many young people hear
these messages at home, at school, and on TV. Don’t believe them.
Simply because you’re young does not mean that your ideas are any
less important. Even if you think you don’t have anything to say,
look a little deeper. You know a lot, and you have huge
contributions to make.
Remember that you should have a say.
In fact, your opinion is more than important - it is essential.
Even if everyone else doesn’t realize it, you have to remember it.
Regardless of the negative messages you hear, you and other young
people have the power to change your communities and your world. To
do so, you must remember it is your right to have a say.
Speak up. Find ways to
make your voice heard. You can serve on a board, work with a local
program, volunteer, organize a community event, or just talk to your
friends about issues that concern you. It’s all about being active,
taking a stand and making a difference.
Find friends to support you.
Taking action is seldom easy, and it can be even harder if you try
to do it alone. Find friends to support you and a team to work
with you. Alone you might make a splash, but as a team you can
unleash a tidal wave.
Work with your adult allies.
There are a lot of adults who do believe that young people should
have a say.
They often have influence, contacts, and resources that
can work in your favor. Don’t give up on your own judgment, but at
the same time remain open to your allies’ advice. Their experiences
are valuable to you.
Do it again and again.
Not everyone is going to hear your message the first time. Whether
you are lobbying your school board to include young people or
organizing a neighborhood festival, remember to speak your mind over
and over again. Don’t get discouraged. Believe in your ideas and
be persistent.
Students from FHS’s
Environmental Club participate in a Blanchard River Clean Up project with other
community partners.
Van Buren Elementary
School students created a medieval garden to go along with the new
school’s design.
