ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP

ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP

There are various community projects that call for the involvement of teens and youths in promoting active involvement in charitable works. One such organisation that caught my attention is the Johannesburg Mini and Junior Council. Teens and youths are elected as members through their schools. They meet regularly and plan fundraisers and charitable events for non-profit organisations. I am encouraged by the commitment of these young people through their selfless acts of kindness.

As adults we are aware of our responsibility towards active citizenship. We participate and contribute towards corporate and social projects at our places of work, at our place of worship and in our communities.   

As families we can do the same by committing ourselves to becoming more actively involved through our support for community organisations who care for the marginalised and less fortunate. I know of some families who initiate their own outreach projects. They inspire others to join their initiatives by spreading the word. Talking about their experiences is enough to spark the interest of their friends and family. In this way they grow support for their initiatives and increase their drive for change.

Yet parenting explores the possible ways in which we can transform the lives of our children by affirming their ability to make a positive change in the lives of those less fortunate. Growing and learning through active engagement creates a sense of purpose. Active citizenship is about showing up for community life. Committing to projects that aims to promote the greater good. We should encourage our kids to look for ways to help and show up when the call for help is made at school, at church or through the community paper.  

Active citizenship is about reaching out and supporting others beyond our own circle of friends and family.

Inspiration can be found in Beyoncé’s performance of I WAS HERE at the United Nations World Humanitarian Day in 2012: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i41qWJ6QjPI

Let us encourage our kids to be the change they want to see in the world (Ghandi)