As a 2010 recipient of the World of Children Youth Founder Award, I can testify to how World of Children's strategy of honoring, elevating, and educating award recipients really benefits child advocates. In selecting WOC Award winners, the organization using an in-depth review and investigation process. Out of hundreds of nominees annually, nominees are whittled down to a handful of finalists who are then investigated by a private investigation organization the ensures the nominee's work is as it is has been portrayed. This ensures that the winners of the WOC Award are really the best in their field. Winning the award brings a great amount of publicity for award winners which helps spread the word about their mission. Even long after a winner is awarded, WOC works to ELEVATE award recipients by continuing to cover and promote their work, and connect recipients with others in the WOC network who are mission-aligned. WOC also educates award recipients and the community at large about issues facing children. As a youth winner, the organization has connected me with adult humanitarian leaders worldwide working to protect and support the growth of children. My organization, Kids for Peace, has greatly benefited from these connections and has formed partnerships with organizations previously awarded the WOC honor to work together to improve the lives of the most vulnerable children in the world. WOC is a fantastic organization really changing the lives of changemakers who dedicate their lives to making the world a better place for every child.

I have volunteered with Kids for Peace kids all over the world and have seen how the curriculum, programs and activities can give hope to children in conflict settings and empower them to make positive changes in their communities. It is with great joy that I volunteer as a Kids for Peace leader and adviser to the organization, adapting curricula for kids who most desperately want peace. Children everywhere love being a part of Kids for Peace!