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Students in Action
Feb 10, 2025

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Students in Action (SIA) by Multiplying Good, formerly known as the Jefferson Awards Foundation, is an empowering program designed to develop youth into leaders, problem solvers, entrepreneurs, and impactful global citizens. The program aims to build confidence in young people, enabling them to make a difference through service projects while preparing them for success in school, work, and life. Participants are trained to investigate community needs, execute high-quality service projects, and reflect on their success. They learn to share service stories, recognize excellence, and celebrate achievements. The curriculum focuses on service, leadership, and recognition. Participants are trained to become experts in service by engaging in their own projects and expanding volunteer capacity within their schools and communities. The program emphasizes leadership skills, aiming to improve communication and leadership among youth, with 87% of participants reporting enhanced skills. Recognition is also a key component, with youth acknowledging their peers and community members for their contributions to service. SIA is delivered through a team-based format, with diverse groups of youth forming teams supported by school advisors, community-based coaches, and the Multiplying Good program team. Training conferences are held in the fall and midwinter to foster engagement and skill-building. Teams meet at least monthly, ideally weekly, to plan and execute projects. The program culminates in a Public Service Pitch Day where teams present their accomplishments, and the winning team from each community attends a national ceremony in Washington, DC, in June. Each year, student teams from our Leadership Communities compete against thousands of their peers be the representative for outstanding service at the National Jefferson Awards. One team per community is chosen. From these, our Board of Selectors chooses three for national recognition.

written by
Rishab Jain