As youth head back to school—mostly virtually—we wanted to acknowledge what an incredibly unique year it’s been for kids. From remote learning to the lack of in-person social interaction with friends due to COVID-19, 2020 has thrown a number of curveballs that are hitting our younger generation hard. On top of this, we are about to have a presidential election that will dictate which way America and our democracy heads for the next four years. Yet, in the face of all of these challenges, youth remain resilient. Read more below on how youth across the country are rising up to get out the vote, and learn how philanthropy is stepping up to support them.

In communities throughout the country, youth are organizing to get out the vote this November, despite the pandemic. Groups like Detroit Action and Engage Miami Civic Foundation are using phone banking, social media, and other outreach tools to ensure young people register to vote. With so much at stake and with so many critical issues—and our democracy—on the line, this election is just too important to ignore, especially for this empowered generation of social activists. Read more»

Feeding our nation’s children through school meals has always been a community effort, from farmers and distributors to teachers and school nutritionists. During this pandemic, it’s been made clear that workers who keep our kids and families fed—many of whom are Black, Hispanic, Indigenous and other people of color—are often unseen, underpaid, and undervalued for the contributions they make in our communities. That’s why this October, National Farm to School Network, a Tides Center partner, will focus its annual National Farm to School Month campaign on expressing appreciation and amplifying underrepresented voices in order to shift power to essential workers and create a more just food system. Join us throughout October to celebrate those who feed us and our children, including a virtual community discussion on October 14 with Karen Washington about shifting power and building food justice. All are welcome and encouraged to join. Learn more and get involved at farmtoschool.org/month»