For young people, World Vision provides a special organisation called the Youth Action Network. This recognises that the sorts of things that we want to do may be different from the things our parents might do.

Advocacy, or speaking out with and on behalf of others, is one way in which World Vision Australia (WVA) is 'fighting poverty by empowering people to transform their worlds'. It provides a voice for voiceless people in poor or marginalised communities. In the case of the Youth Action Network, it takes similar issues to those dealt with by adults in the organisation but puts it in language that is easy to follow. (from the World Vision site)

Also, the Youth Action Network focuses on issues that are more likely to appeal to young people up to the age of 17. You get the rest of the stuff - but believe us, it isn't anywhere near as easy to read. Still it is interesting, especially for those of you who want a little more detail before you take action on issues. The Youth Action sheet that comes along with the straight Action News makes reference to pages in the Action News and how to follow through with these.

To get you started, the winter issue (we are in the Southern hemisphere remember - so that is June / July) looks at signing on for the Youth Landmine Ban Treaty, how to contribute to the Stop Child Soldiers petition, Taking Part in a Jubilee anti-Debt event.

You can contact the Youth Action Network at:

Youth Action Network
GPO Box 399C
Melbourne 3001
Victoria, Australia
e-mail : westonp@wva.org.au or visit the World Vision Site for further details.

And remember - while the link is in Australia, you can contribute in many ways from around the globe. While the problem may be global, by acting locally and doing something close to home, we can make a difference.