"Your class has the potential to become an empowered and reflective group that’s thoughtful in decision making and unified...for the common good of making their "neighborhood" a better place--something fourth and fifth graders never get involved in because they are too young, right? WRONG! Be prepared to see your children become articulate speakers, letter writers, and problem solvers as they unify themselves while talking to town and city managers about changes that would make a difference in everyone’s lives'" 

The purpose of this project is to engage youth in community planning and revitalization activities by encouraging them to draw connections between the design and condition of their communities and impacts on their health. Through evaluating the health and safety of their neighborhood and initiating service-learning projects that address their findings, youth play key roles in developing solutions to community issues. Given a voice, and the opportunity to make a real difference in their community, youth make connections across curricula and their lives, become excited about their learning, and become active and engaged community citizens, now and in the future. Involving youth in community decision-making benefits everyone: youth, adults, and the community.