advocate

=So, what is an advocate anyway? =

Here's the definition from [|Merriam-Webster OnLine:]

**1** **:** one that pleads the cause of another  ; //specifically// **:** one that pleads the cause of another before a tribunal or judicial court **2** **:** one that defends or maintains a cause or proposal **3** **:** one that supports or promotes the interests of another

What does this mean for you?

When you and your friends get together, you probably spend most of the time talking about your favorite band, who's hot and who's not... What are you gonna do this weekend??

But sometimes, you might start talking about something that really gets you thinking- something you feel strongly about.

You're in a unique place where there are lots of issues that affect teens and you understand them as only a teen can.

When you find that thing that makes you want to **Do Something!** Then, you're ready to be an advocate...

=What are the Issues? = ===<span class="sense_content" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-size: inherit; font-family: 'Times New Roman','Times Serif',serif; font-weight: normal">   ===

Brainstorm with your friends about things you care about. It doesn't have to be an world cause, it can be close to home. Peer pressure Bullying Teen pregnancy Politics Human Rights Animal Rights The Environment

What Else?

Need some help? Here are links to several organizations that bring attention to different causes:

For International issues check out the United Nations [|Cyberschoolbus]

For animal rights check out the [|Humane Society]

For environmental issues check out this page from the [|Nature Conservancy]

For information on advocacy training check out the [|Children's Defense Fund]

If you're a member on [|Facebook], search for causes to join and learn how to become involved in them. Some causes represented on Facebook include Invisible Children, Stop Global Warming, and To Write Love on Her Arms. There are hundreds of other causes to join on this site; go for it! =<span style="color: rgb(32, 44, 146); text-align: center; display: block">A Challenge... =

Does your school have a guidance counselor? Are there already peer groups that talk about social issues? Search a topic that interests you and your friends, find a teacher who will help sponsor you and **start your own advocacy group!

Use this page to write about your** experience. Back to Get Involved Go to Join a Group Back to Home