SLANT 45: Future of the World

Alexis, Veronica, Anthony and Alyssa (pictured above, left to right) are students in an afterschool program for at-risk kids at George C. Clarke Elementary in Fort Worth. These four students are the leaders of four SLANT 45 projects taking place at the school which all tie into the theme "Future of the World."

The students themselves decided what their projects would be and with whom they would partner: Veronica is leading a graffiti cleanup project; Alexis is concentrating on gang prevention; Alyssa is leading a beautification/trash pickup project and is working with Anthony, whose group is creating a recycling program the proceeds from which will go to charity.

On Wednesday, these children and their school were host to a meeting of the SLANT 45 Action Team, a group of business professionals, educators and others who help with outreach. Each student spoke briefly but passionately about why they feel these issues are problems in their community and their plan to address them. Members of the Action Team were particularly struck by how these children are so quick to give back even though they themselves are in need - and that is the beauty of SLANT 45. It gives elementary school children the chance to get to know more about their community, identify and fill a need and spark the spirit of giving that will follow these children through their adulthood.

If you know an inspiring group of youngsters who are ready to give back to their community, sign up at www.slant45.org/. All kids who participate will be invited to attend an extra-special celebration event at Cowboys Stadium in January 2011. Register today!