Just as leaders are measured not by what they have achieved to benefit themselves, but by their contributions to the larger world, those who aspire to leadership — be it a community or individuals — are judged and respected by their efforts to give back.
There are many individuals in our community who have given of themselves — in public service to their country and their local communities, in philanthropy, in science, in the arts, in creating jobs and building vibrant communities. From veterans and their brethren who gave the last full measure of devotion, to teachers, doctors, good neighbors, good citizens, and good parents, our community is full of shining examples.
And we should honor their examples — by setting new examples for others to follow.
Learning to Give Back
Giving, however, does not always come automatically. It is a practice learned, exercised — and passed along. And that is the first goal of the Next Generation Initiative’s Greeks Give Back Challenge: to support a rising generation’s efforts to lead, learn and give back through community service.
Inspired by Greek American students already involved in service to their communities, we aim to encourage all young Greek Americans to give back — by challenging next generation students to create innovative, measurable ways that will serve others in their communities — whether it is by helping smaller or newer groups launch their first project aimed at community service, or helping those who already have experience grow their existing efforts, and increase their impact.
To do so, the Next Generation Initiative has launched the Greeks Give Back Next Generation National Student Competition, to recognize and reward young Greek Americans who develop creative proposals for projects that emphasize community service, require teamwork, involve their peers, reflect their heritage — and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
The Next Generation National Student Competition is an outcome of the Got Greek? Project’s Next Generation National Student Research Study, and is made possible by a generous grant from the Zapis Charitable Foundation, along with additional support from the Maliotis Charitable Foundation and the Gerondelis Foundation.
Greeks Give Back links
The Next Generation National Student Competition
Student Competition Online Application
How to Give Back: Ideas, resources and examples for student projects
Everyone Can Make a Difference: Announcing the Greeks Give Back Challenge
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