Youth Across the Nation Answer the 2024 Call For Kindness (324 hits)
Riley's Way Foundation has opened its Call For Kindness, calling on young people (13-23 years old) nationwide to submit their ideas for projects rooted in kindness, empathy, youth leadership, and community. The Call For Kindness (C4K) offers youth the chance to participate in a dynamic Leadership Development Fellowship and win up to $5,000 to fund a project that strengthens their local, national, or global communities. Visit callforkindness.org to apply!
"Young people are leading in their schools and communities in inspiring ways," shared Dr. Christine O'Connell, Executive Director of Riley's Way Foundation. "Their bold thinking and acts of kindness are the ingredients we need to make the world better."
As many as 40 youth-led projects will receive awards up to $5,000 each. Youth can submit a new or existing idea centering on prevailing social impact issues and community-based needs. Separate categories will consider 10 projects focused on education equity, one in dance and the arts and another around interfaith connections.
Education equity is not only about breaking down systemic barriers and accommodating various circumstances,” explained C4K alumni, Everest Maya-Tudor, “it's also about creating an environment where learning is seen as a fundamental right rather than a privilege.”
Past projects have addressed mental health and well-being, promoted racial justice, bridged the tech industry's demographic gap, supported those experiencing homelessness, combatted food insecurity, and much more. The complete list of Call For Kindness projects can be found here.
“The support from the Riley’s Way community has been invaluable,” shared 2023 C4K Fellow Austin Picinich from Save our Salmon, “I set my biggest goals this year - and accountability meetings with my mentor empowered me to reach new heights.” 2022 Fellow Manavi Bajpai of Tunes for Kidz said, “I learned I have the potential to truly change the world, and how no matter what, I always have the Riley’s Way community supporting me.”
"Young people leading with kindness are creating a dynamic and positive force for good that our world desperately needs," shared Ian Sandler, Co-Founder and Board Chair of Riley's Way. "They are paving the way for a more vibrant leadership landscape that fosters innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to a kinder world.”
Visit CallForKindness.org to learn more and read about past Fellows.
About Riley's Way Foundation Riley's Way invests in and supports the next generation of kind leaders. We provide young people with the programs, support, and inclusive community they need to thrive as changemakers. Riley's Way is committed to supporting these young leaders to build a better world that values kindness, empathy, connection, and the voices of all youth.
The Call for Kindness is Riley’s Way’s national flagship program that gives young changemakers the skills, connections, and funding they need to run successful social impact projects. The Call For Kindness comprises a start-up grant of up to $5,000 and a 12-month Leadership Development Fellowship with skill-building, expert coaching, peer mentoring, in-person Leadership Retreats, and a peer-community of other young changemakers.
