Leadership, no matter one’s age
By Maitreyi Shrikhande
Junior, Davenport Central High School
I used to think that philanthropy was only for people like Bill Gates and Warren Buffet. The thought of me being a philanthropist, especially as a teenager, never crossed my mind.
I don’t think like that anymore.
For the past year, I’ve been a proud member of the Teens for Tomorrow Program at the Quad Cities Community Foundation. After spending the past 12 months surrounded by like-minded students in the Quad Cities who want to see change—and be the change—in our community, I have a deep appreciation for the fact that anyone can and should be a philanthropist, whether it’s giving of your time or money.
Certainly, we’ve seen that play out in extraordinary ways over the past few months as the COVID-19 pandemic has asked each of us to consider how we can support our families, neighbors, and even those we do not know. Because of Teens for Tomorrow, I have a better understanding of what our community looks like, both in its strengths and weaknesses. I have been able to hone in on the areas I am most passionate about. And, I now more fully recognize the ways I can support people and causes most important to me.
There are specific learnings that stick out in my mind: one in eight people in the Quad Cities are food insecure, and a third of the population has suffered from chronic depression. The statistics don’t depress my desire to help—they ignite a fire in me.
I’m paying attention to whether or not our teachers are equipped with the resources they need. I’m looking at ways we can bridge the disparity and inequity gaps in the Quad Cities. I am inspired now to believe that every person, no matter their age, socio-economic background or race, has the ability to help effect change.
Our cohort this year provided grants to areas that we felt urgently need resources: the environment and mental health. Year after year, these issues have resurfaced for students participating in the program and have received support. They are clearly issues we believe it is important to give voice to.
We also provided grants this year to support people with disabilities, our way of standing behind nonprofits in this region doing excellent work to provide opportunities for all people.
The fact that we could make a difference locally, as teenagers, is so humbling and indicative of what can happen when an organization like the Community Foundation is equipped with resources to, as their mission states, transform the region through the generosity of donors.
I have lived in the Quad Cities since I was a toddler. I deeply love this community. My experience with the Quad Cities Community Foundation’s Teens for Tomorrow Program has emboldened me to call on others to step out in leadership and generosity. Certainly, the time we are living in right now is a reminder of how crucial it is that we have leadership, no matter one’s age.
Know a student who would be a perfect fit for our 2020/21 Teens for Tomorrow Program? Encourage them to apply online here by June 30, 2020.