August 12 is International Youth Day. The observance was designated by the UN in 1999 to bring awareness to challenges that youth face. This year’s theme is “Transforming Education,” which challenges us to make education inclusive for all.

Here are a few ideas of ways to help:

• Support low-income students. Coming from a low-income family can pose challenges that make it difficult for children to focus in school. Collect backpacks, school supplies, winter clothing, and food for after-school meal programs.
• Support students with disabilities. Check with your local school board to learn how you can help the programs in your community or even start your own.
• Raise money for Heifer’s School Milk Project. With your help, students in Tanzania can focus on learning instead of on their empty stomach.

Even if you don’t get to it on August 12, plan an International Youth Day project to support students who face challenges accessing education and email your success stories to [email protected].