Karma for Cara Foundation microgrant recipients have competed in an application process alongside other young people who have spearheaded exceptional service projects that benefit their communities. In order to qualify for a K4C award, an applicant must be 18 years of age or younger, and the project must take place in the US.
Microgrant recipient Sarah from CA launched Connecteens in 2021 to address teens’ social isolation as a result of COVID-19 and create ways for teenagers to connect with each other, specifically working with youth & young adults with special needs. With her award, Sarah and team ran a skill-building workshop related to jewelry making, painting, plant propagation/plant care & drawing.
| What inspired you to start this project? | This project was a continuation of work I’ve done in the past for my Girl Scout Gold Award. In the pandemic, youth with disabilities were especially at risk for loneliness and isolation, and doing workshops such as these gives them a creative outlet and an opportunity to connect with others. |
| While working on your project, what surprised you? | I was surprised by which workshops students liked the most. Some students were enthusiastic and participatory in every activity, but others only loved one or two. Nevertheless, from the end of workshop survey, I learned that every student learned at least one new skill or hobby that they hope to continue post- workshop. |
| What do you feel you learned from this experience? | I learned how to better work with people with learning disabilities, and that is something I will continue to learn. I learned that being a good collaborator means giving the students as much independence as possible, while maintaining organization. |
| How did Karma for Cara impact your project? | Karma for Cara not only made my project possible financially, but also gave me to toolkit to succeed by helping me to plan, set achievable goals, and execute my project. |
| How will your project continue to impact others? | The students who were involved in the workshop have continued to be involved in Connecteens. Some have applied to be ambassadors, and others have applied for startup funding for their small business idea. Beyond connections, the skills the participants have learned in the workshops will last their lifetime. |
