International Youth Day
Today has been International Youth Day. The theme for IYD 2012 was “Building a better world, partnering with youth”. As UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says, “To unleash the power of young people, we need to partner with them.” This is precisely what we believe, at the Chreda Foundation, which is why we are currently exploring how, over the next 18 months or so, we can best leverage our resources through those young people who are already socially aware and actively involved in charitable and community activities. We hope, too, to inspire those who have yet to begin that journey. Increasingly, we are becoming convinced not only that Children Are Our Future, but that many teenagers – and, indeed, even some very young children – are making a difference right now. We – the older generation – need to partner with them, to provide support, encouragement and inspiration.
In many cases they are showing us the way. I was privileged to support the Night To Remember, at Pontlliw, South Wales, last Friday evening: here was a classic case of a young person taking the initiative to plan and execute a very successful charity fundraiser. And similar examples are coming to light almost daily. This website has reported on many of them, since commencing at the beginning of this year, and our report Young Philanthropists was just the tip of the iceberg.
Today (and, indeed, every day) the UN advocates:
- increasing commitment and investment in youth
- increasing youth participation and partnerships
- increasing intercultural understanding among youth
“Investments in young people will pay great dividends in a better future for all”, says Ban Ki-moon.
Around half of the world’s population is aged 25 or under, and 85% are said to be in developing countries. So much of the attention is understandably focused on those parts of the world. The Chreda Foundation, though, is a UK charity, so while applauding the philanthropic activities of young people in other lands, and maintaining an interest in their welfare and development, we must focus particularly on young people within our own shores. Supporters of this site will have noticed that increasing emphasis is being put here on youthful philanthropy and altruism… particularly where it is taking place within the UK. This trend will continue, and I trust that readers in other countries will understand the reasons, and continue to support what we are doing here, rather than feeling left out. But if ever any of you have specific topics that you feel should be covered – whether involving young people or not, don’t hesitate to let me know, and I will do my best to accommodate you. As explained previously, the ‘Notices’ page (Calendar of Events) is no longer available; but I can still be reached via the Contact page.
Meanwhile, thank you all for your continued support of this site.
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