Description
Book SynopsisThe ideal book for young people wanting to make a positive difference in the world.
While many teens, college students, and young professionals are passionate about social issues—whether climate change or gun violence, hunger or homelessness, or any other of the countless difficulties which face our world today—and want to help, enthusiasm alone is not enough to make a meaningful impact. But effective advocacy and activism can be learned, and with the right tools, achieving positive social change is possible.
Inspired to Action: How Young Changemakers Can Shape Their Communities and the World provides readers with the knowledge and tools they need to turn passion into effective action. From the basics of how civic engagement and political participation form the framework for lasting social change, to learning how nonprofit organizations function and whether to consider starting one, this book gives young people the background they need to find their place in the world of social activism. With practical guidance regarding the importance of communication skills, community building, fundraising, and organizing, this book offers an accessible and lively grounding in what is needed to become an effective changemaker.
Featuring personal stories and advice from twelve successful young activists, thoughtful recommendations from seasoned professionals, and an extensive list of resources for further information, Inspired to Action is essential reading for any young person interested in the world of advocacy and activism.
Table of ContentsIntroduction
Chapter 1: Why Teens Can Be Powerful Agents of Change
Chapter 2: Twelve Young Changemakers – Who They Are, and How They Made Things Happen
Chapter 3: Becoming an Activist
Chapter 4: Three Fundamentals of Activism
Understanding Your Cause
Motivating People
Organizing for Action
Chapter 5: Tools for Activism
Civic Engagement and Political Participation
Fundraising
Networking and Support Systems
Connections and Community
Mentors
Communication Skills
Social Media Savvy
The Elevator Pitch
Critical Thinking
Self-Efficacy and Self-Confidence
Idealism
Preparation
Experience
Looking the Part
Self-Care
Willingness to Learn and Grow
Resources
Bibliography
Filmography
Index
About the Author
