The Global Changemaker awards honor young people who “have demonstrated active engagement with communities and civil society organizations in the promotion of international cooperation and social justice. “  World Renew was thrilled to learn that five of the nine recipients were from “Let Kids Be Kids.”

“Let Kids Be Kids” is a group of Ontario high school students who have committed to raising $15,000 for World Renew's programs in Senegal and Nigeria that help to address child labor, human trafficking and poverty. These programs educate young people and their families on how to break the cycle of poverty.

“Let Kids Be Kids” started several years ago when the original five students attended an All Ontario Youth Convention and were inspired by what they heard about World Renew’s programs around the world.  They returned home and began organizing small fundraising events, including bake sales and car washes, to raise money to help those in need. Seeing their initiative grow was encouraging for them as the group grew to include up to 15 members.  Their goal is to raise $15,000 by the time they graduate in June 2015. As of January, the group has raised $13,000—an amount that will be matched three-fold by the Canadian government.

You can find out more about the incredible story of “Let Kids Be Kids” by watching OCIC’s video interview with the five founding members — Abby Lobert, Josh Schoon, David Schuurman, Victoria TeBrake, and Braden VanDyk.

Remember: The group whose video receives the most views during the month of February will receive an additional $500 for their organization of choice. So please watch and share this video on Facebook and Twitter to help “Let Kids Be Kids” increase their chances of winning!

Congratulations, “Let Kids Be Kids!”