Starkville Teens Launch 100 Kids Who Care Initiative to Empower Youth Philanthropy

Starkville Teens Band Together to Make a Difference with 100 Kids Who Care

In the vibrant community of Starkville, a remarkable initiative is taking shape, led by local teenagers eager to make a difference. The organization, known as 100 Kids Who Care, embodies the spirit of giving and shows how even small contributions can create a significant impact. Just like its grown-up counterparts, 100 Women Who Care and 100 Men Who Care, this youth-driven group is redefining community involvement for a younger generation.

A Simple, Yet Powerful Idea

The concept behind 100 Kids Who Care is refreshingly straightforward. The organization brings together 100 kids, each donating between $5 and $15 twice a year. Once these funds are pooled, the group comes together to vote on which local organizations will receive the donations. This not only empowers the teens to contribute to causes they care about, but it also gives them a direct say in how the money is utilized.

Inspiration Behind the Movement

One of the co-founders shared the inspiration for this noble initiative. Her mother’s involvement with 100 Women Who Care sparked her imagination, leading her to think, “Why not do something similar for kids?” This idea quickly took off after she enlisted the help of a few friends. “It seemed like a great idea for kids, too,” she reflected.

Empowering Young Voices

Open to all young individuals eager to make an impact, the group primarily focuses on teenagers. However, donations from people of all ages are warmly welcomed. “Our goal is to give kids a voice and an easy way to help their community,” she emphasized. She believes that even younger individuals should understand their ability to effect change. Plus, being part of this organization can add some impressive experience to their college resumes!

A Dedicated Leadership Team

The organization is run by a dedicated leadership team of students aged 15 to 17, filled with passion and drive. Alongside the co-founder, other co-founders play crucial roles in steering the group. The leadership team also includes Katie Chung as their social media manager, Anya Rai as treasurer, and Ella Horan as secretary. Other enthusiastic members serve as representatives and fill roles such as Kerianna Robinson as graphic designer and Ava Williams as outreach coordinator.

The Voting Process: Simple and Inclusive

Choosing which local organizations receive the donations is a collaborative process that involves everyone. Members are encouraged to nominate causes they feel passionate about, and then a vote is held to determine the recipients. “Most of the money will likely go toward nonprofits in the area, like the Boys and Girls Club or the J.L. King Center,” explained the co-founder, showcasing the group’s commitment to supporting local initiatives.

A Lasting Impact on the Community

Ultimately, 100 Kids Who Care isn’t just about collecting donations — it’s about instilling a sense of community responsibility among the youth. The team aims to teach young people the importance of giving back, providing them with opportunities to engage and contribute within Starkville. Through their efforts, this group of teens is paving the way for a brighter future, showing that young voices matter and that anyone can make a significant difference.