Teens STAND up!

You know I've been talking about teens exhibiting risk-taking and responsibility seeking behaviours in past blogs.

Last night my wife and I attended at an incredible evening put together by our daughter's STAND (Students Taking Action Now for Darfur) Group. Thsi group of fifteen or so 17 and 18 year olds put on a fundraising (awareness raising) dinner auction for about 100 guests.

The program was varied, interesting, thought-provoking and fun. There was a dinner of Ethiopian food with entertainment provided by a local Marimba band. Other aspects included a silent auction, donation table with some small items for sale, door prizes, displays depicting what the students have learned about the genocide in Darfur region of the Sudan. Towards the end was a speaker who related some of his experiences in Africa and finally a speaking and video presentation by the students.

Indeed this was a night to remember. Not only for the message that this STAND group delivered but that it was organized totally by them. Their meetings were on the weekends and in the evenings. No adult participation was involved except in seeking contacts or donations.

The event raised several thousands of dollars and was as good or better than many events I have attended over the years that are put together by professionals.

Their Principal commented to me, "See what they can do when we're not involved."

It's events like this that remind us that teens are able to take on the responsibilities that sometimes we deny them.

Step aside and let them have a go at some things, they're more than up for the challenge.