Teens Help Out: How Some High School Students
Helped HDF Make a Difference

Teenagers are an oftentimes an overlooked but incredibly powerful part of the philanthropic community. A perfect example of young people using their passion for a worthy cause is the $1000 donation raised by the Key Club of Osbourn Park High School, Virginia, to support the Human Development Foundation’s earthquake relief.

After the tragic earthquake of that struck northern Pakistan on October 8th of 2005, the students of Osbourn Park decided they wanted to make a difference. Under the leadership of freshman Qasim Kazmi, they embarked on an inventive and effective fundraising campaign. Modeled after the incredibly successful LiveStrong bracelet campaign, students designed and produced 1000 green bracelets that read “Earthquake Relief”. The bracelets were sold for $1 each and allowed each student to demonstrate his support for the relief efforts and the Pakistani community.

LeAnne Beardsley, a Language Arts teacher at Osbourn Park High School, stressed Qasim’s role in researching and implementing this project. He wrote the initial proposal, researched charities and organized the production of the bracelets. He then organized a sub-committee of approximately over 60 students who, with the additional support of the local Kiwanis club, sold the bracelets to their friends and family.

After researching several different charities working in Pakistan, the committee decided to donate the money to the Human Development Foundation. The club researched other philanthropic organizations, but decided on the Human Development Foundation because of its strong ties to the Pakistani community and partnerships with other Non-Governmental Organizations.

When asked if he had any advice for other students interested in fundraising, Qasim said “Make your proposal informative and personal. First start with what you want to raise money for then include why.” He also stressed the importance of quality research and communicating the legitimacy of your cause.

“This is just another example of how people working together can accomplish so much,” said Bill Breedlove, HDF’s Executive Director. “We are very proud of the effort Qasim and these students have put into this project and hope others will be as inspired as we are.”

Date/Time Last Modified: 9/5/2006 8:35:38 AM

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