Making a Difference

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How to be a youth advocate

• Discover and remember your “WHY.” Your WHY is what will ignite and sustain you.
• Know the issue and organization inside out. Your knowledge will be your greatest source of confidence and persuasion.
• Advocates are amplifiers, not spokespersons. Advocates are platforms for unheard voices to speak through – ones of truthful representation, respect and dignity.
• Be in it for the long haul. Do it for the cause and not applause.

Read more here from World Vision.

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How to take care of yourself while you fight for social change

• While educating yourself, take a break from your phone and social media. All this information can be overwhelming, so set realistic goals each week, for when you’ll learn about certain topics.
• Surround yourself with like-minded folxs by joining a local organization or online group where you can discuss these topics and learn how to take action.
• Acknowledge your emotions, and how you’re feeling or reacting to information or actions you’re taking.
• If you’re feeling hopeless, listen to a podcast or read an article where someone is fighting for social change.
• Take small actions. You don’t need to do everything all at once.

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How YOU can change the world

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Organizations to support in Hamilton

Make sure to do your own research on different organizations before you choose one you’d like to support.

• CityKidz Hamilton
• Heart to Home Meals
• Hamilton Interval House
• Mission Services
• Hamilton Food Share
• Flamborough Food Bank
• Eagle’s Nest of Waterdown
• Habitat for Humanity Hamilton
• Animal Adoptions of Flamborough
• Food with Grace Waterdown Food Bank
• Food4Kids Hamilton
• Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion
• Hamilton Regional Indian Centre
• Native Women’s Centre
• Living Rock Youth Resources
• Good Sheperd Centres for: Women, Men, Families, Youth, and Seniors

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Take the first step

Start by making a difference in your city by using your voice to help make it a better place!