But first, we report about some special young people who have taken on some big causes.
(MUSIC) Kids With Causes HOST: While many American children are climbing trees and playing at the pool this summer, a few others are helping people in need. Mario Ritter has our report about kids with causes.
MARIO RITTER: Asperger's syndrome is a kind of autism, a brain disorder found in children. People with Asperger's have limited communication skills. They may have trouble relating to others on an emotional level.
Amanda LaMunyon lives in Oklahoma. She is fourteen years old. She was identified with Asperger's syndrome at the age of eight. She had been having trouble at school. Her teachers said the little girl knew all the rules but could not seem to follow them.
Then, Amanda says, art changed her life. When she started painting she discovered she could express herself with color and canvas. Her art teacher discovered that Amanda had great skill.
Amanda decided to use her art to help children with learning problems. She wants children to know that "their challenges may also become a gift." Amanda created a Web site to sell her art. She donates the earnings to organizations that help sick children. She also speaks at events to increase information about Asperger's and other autism disorders. Amanda says she does not want children to ever give up because they do not know what they can do until they try.
Zach Bonner knows just how far trying can get you. Earlier this month the eleven year old completed his biggest charity project to date. He walked almost two thousand kilometers from his home in Florida to Washington, D.C., to raise money for homeless children in America.
He called his project "From My House to the White House." He carried a message to President Obama and lawmakers. He asked for help for the more than one million homeless children in the United States. The walk raised tens of thousands of dollars for Zach's cause. His mother says Zach has always enjoyed community service work. She says it began when Hurricane Charley hit Florida in two thousand four. Zach decided to help victims by walking around his area with his little red wagon collecting and giving out bottles of water. He got the nickname "Little Red Wagon Boy." Now, "Little Red Wagon" is the name of Zach's foundation. It has raised money for playgrounds and shelters for homeless children. Zach also gives out thousands of backpacks. He fills each "Zachpac" with a toy, personal cleaning supplies, socks, sewing supplies, a first aid kit and food. Zach has won many awards, met several presidents and been on television. But that is not why he wants to help people. Zach Bonner says if you have a good heart you have to use it. And, he says, charity work is a lot of fun.
Eighteen year old Christina Johnson and her older sister Geneva started their project, "Bring It On," in the Bronx area of New York City in two thousand four. They wanted to improve the place where they lived. The area was so dangerous their parents would not let them play outside.
The girls started a program to empower children in their community. "Bring It On" organizes environmental "jams" to clean up waste in the area. The group also holds classes and talks on health, leadership, how to set up small businesses and other issues. "Bring It On" receives money and other support from local businesses and other sponsors. These young people are not alone in their efforts. The Corporation for National and Community Service released a report this week. It said young people are leading the way in volunteering in the United States. The study said community service by young adults increased by four hundred thousand volunteers last year, more than any other age group.
