Teens and technology – these days, the two go hand in
hand.
Carrie Ingerman knows from
experience that the web can help keep us in touch with loved ones, and she’s
used that knowledge to help teens get through tough times.
This 16-year-old from Baton Rouge, La.,
started Cliks4Kidz, an organization that donates laptops to children in cancer
treatment so they can stay connected with their friend, family, and teachers.
We caught up with Carrie to talk about Cliks4Kidz, her
inspiration, and how you can help...
GL: How did Cliks4Kidz
get started?
Carrie: When my grandmother, who lives halfway
across the country, was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt hopeless. The only thing that helped me know that
she was doing okay was talking to her via webcam. This later provided me with the idea for Cliks4Kidz. During a conversation with my mother,
we discussed my reliance on technology.
Our discussion turned to how isolated children receiving cancer
treatment are and Cliks4Kidz was born.
GL: What
have you accomplished so far?
Carrie: So far, I have donated 17 laptops – 10
to the Children’s Hospital of New Orleans and 7 to Our Lady of the Lake
Children’s Hospital. Additionally,
I have collected more than 200 pounds of electronic waste, 5,000 aluminum tabs,
and raised more than $10,000.
GL: What are
your hopes for Cliks4Kidz in the future?
Carrie: I hope to expand my efforts to include
donations to all hospitalized children.
GL: What
have you learned from your volunteer work?
Carrie: One of the most important lessons that
I have learned has been that it is better to give than receive. In addition, I have learned that
something as small as a laptop can make a huge impact.
GL: Who or
what inspires you?
Carrie: The smiles and tears of the children
that have been able to use the laptops we have donated.
GL: What
advice do you have for girls who want to help others?
Carrie: One thing that I have realized through
my experiences with Cliks4Kidz is that kids can and DO make a difference. From picking up trash to building wells
to collecting clean water in India, you can make a difference. If you have an idea, don’t let it go to
waste because you think you are too young to do anything about it. It is imperative that you take action
to help your community because you are the future.
GL: Can
others get involved with Cliks4Kidz?
If so, how?
Carrie: Cliks4Kidz
accepts donations on the web at www.cliks4kidz.org.
Anyone who is interested in getting involved with Cliks4Kidz is more than
welcome. Cliks4Kidz can be supported through purchases made through
OneCause. Additionally, proceeds
from collected electronic waste or aluminum tabs can be donated to purchase
laptops. For more information on getting involved with Cliks4Kidz, check out
our website at www.cliks4kidz.org or
email us at info@cliks4kidz.org.
For more information about the Prudential Spirit of
Community Awards and how to apply,
click here.
BY MARIE HANSEN ON 8/21/2011 12:00:00 AM
POSTED IN Get Inspired