Apparently, no one cared about the environment at Jacob’s school. Every time he tried to talk about global warming and the effects of fossil fuels on the earth, people walked away, or told him to shut up about it. Why? Didn’t they realize how vital this was to their future, to the future of the planet? He was tired of being blown off when he was just trying to help people. Jacob was sure there must be other kids somewhere who cared. Where were they?

Where were his people?

Jacob stayed after class to ask his science teacher about it. They talked about his concerns and his desire to share information with other kids who were also interested. Finally, they decided to start an environment club, once a week, to meet during lunch in the science lab. His teacher offered to do the paperwork the school required for all new clubs, and Jacob said he would find some information about how to structure the club. They wanted to make a difference, not just sit around and complain about it.

A New Club

When the day of their first meeting came around, three other people showed up. At first Jacob was disappointed, until he realized that this was just the beginning. These kids shared his strong feelings about their planet. They watched a video of Greta Thunberg, an autistic teenager, speaking powerfully on behalf of climate justice. It was so inspiring, it sparked an animated conversation about what could be done. By the end of the first club meeting, they had all decided to significantly reduce their use of fossil fuels, which for many meant walking and biking rather than driving, asking for a ride or taking the bus. It would not be convenient or easy, but it made sense to start making a change immediately, right where they were.

After the meeting, Jacob felt super charged and excited. It had been exhilarating to talk about his passion with others who shared his feelings, and to feel like they could make a difference. The next day the group members found each other at lunch and continued their conversation. Over time the group grew slowly as others who shared their commitment heard about them. It didn’t matter to Jacob if the club was small or large, as long as the people in it could share about their common interest, and look for ways to make a difference. Having this club, and a group of like-minded friends to eat lunch with, gave him something to look forward to each day.

Jacob’s Club Solution

When he couldn’t find a group related to his interests, Jacob did what he needed to do to start a new club. Now people who share his interests come to him.