The Kids Are All Right
Kids today. We hear that phrase all the time, usually followed by some disappointing statistic or alarmist article about the state of the youth. But we happen to think teens are pretty amazing. They're energetic and dynamic and deeply involved in the wellbeing of the world. How else can you explain the fact that 85% of teenagers say they want to start volunteering?
Unfortunately, only 35% of teenagers actually do volunteer, a surprising statistic when you consider how many want to be more involved. But it turns out that most kids aren't just lazy—they're uncertain how to get started. No one asked them to help, so they don't know where their efforts are needed.
To give them the extra kick they need to start giving back, DoSomething.org has launched The Hunt, an 11-day competition that kicks off on July 10 and will pit teenagers from across the nation in specific challenges. As you might expect, every task has a good component. For example, Day 1 of The Hunt focuses on the environment, while Day 2 is all about preventing violence and bullying. Each day has a different cause, which helps keep the game interesting and ever-changing.
By tapping into their competitive spirit—and their desire to do good—The Hunt will raise awareness among teenagers about important issues. It will also hopefully give them the knowledge they need to continue volunteering year-round.
And in case you needed some extra incentive to pass along this email to your favorite youngster, here's an added bonus: there will be prizes, and lots of them! Teens can win laptops, scholarship money, and even a trip to the Do Something Awards in Los Angeles.
Find out more by letting Shanae explain in the video above, or go to DoSomething.org for more details.