Annual Leadership Development Fellowship provides $5,000 in funding for young people to address some of today’s most pressing issues.
BROOKLYN, N.Y., January 8, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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Riley’s Way Foundation opened its Call For Kindness today, calling on young people (13-23 years old) nationwide to submit their ideas for projects rooted in kindness, empathy 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.
“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 of up to $5,000 each. Youth can submit a new or existing idea centering on prevailing social impact issues or community-based needs. Separate categories will consider 10 projects focused on education equity and one in dance and the arts.
“Education equity is not only about breaking down systemic barriers and accommodating various circumstances,” explained 2020 Call For Kindness Fellow and Youth Advisory Board member 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, environmental justice, 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 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.
Source: Riley’s Way Foundation
