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Become a social citizen! It may be easier than you think.

A social citizen is an individual who is energetic and passionate about social causes; brimming with new approaches and ideas for problem-solving; disposed toward sharing the responsibilities and rewards of affecting change in the world; and equipped with the digital tools and people power to make it happen.

Does this describe you? Probably not. But don't feel bad! We can't all make a difference in everything that we do in our lives; we can only strive to make more of a difference. Keep reading to find out how to do just that, in three easy steps!

Step 1: Decide What's Important.

Do some research on hot topics in the world today, and find one that speaks to you. Form an opinion and "decide what's important".

Step 2: Reach Out.

Get the word out! Find some friends and/or family that share the same opinion. Find people who haven't yet formed an opinion on the same topic, and help them see things from your point of view. Establish a group of people that are ready to stand up for their opinion, and proceed to step three.

Step 3: Take a Stand.

Use your opinion as motivation to do something good for the community! Stand up for your opinion and try to get something done. Participate in a peaceful protest or some other type of event that will make a difference. Get your voice heard. Don't go unnoticed.

These are just a few simple steps that can help you become a social citizen. If you reach out to your community and you try to make a difference there, your impact will surely spread, and you just may be able to impact the world some day!

According to a Harvard survey, the youth vote is increasing due to the recentmost elections that have proven to be very unpopular. The rising generation of adults seems to want the reign of Republican ruling to end. It seems as if the rising generation is more interested in "change" as Mr. Obama often claims in his campaigning.

Another reason that the youth vote may be rising is due to internet campaigning. I have seen many different advertisements on popular social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook, and others. The presidential candidates of today realize that advertising on such websites is very beneficial.

I believe there may be another reason why the youth vote is steadily increasing. I am 16 years old and I have seen, first-hand, how easily it is to influence today's youth. I truly believe that one reason why the political candidates of tomorrow will be able to gain more votes is simply because the youth of today is so easily to influence.

With all of these possible reasons combining, one can only imagine how important the youth vote will be in the upcoming years. One day the youth vote may be the most important vote to obtain. For now, all we can do is wait.

Roots & Shoots, a service-learning program of The Jane Goodall Institute, is excited to announce grants of $300 - $700 to support youth-led service projects in New England. Up to 10 mini-grants will support youth groups (pre-K through college age) in planning and implementing service projects.

We encourage youth to address the theme of “Promoting Engagement in World Harmony.” This is based upon a recent initiative of the Roots & Shoots New England Youth Leadership Council; they seek to translate a vision of World Harmony into speech, art or action.

The Mini-Grant Application is available at: http://nerootsandshoots.blogspot.com/2008/02/roots-and-shoots-announces-world.html or you can get a copy from me, Christine Ellersick, Roots & Shoots New England Regional Manager: cellersick@janegoodall.org. Feel free to share this information.