Ripple Foundation is a 100% volunteer-run national educational charity. Ripple Foundation creates and delivers free community programs advocating creative literacy among children and youth. We spoke with Isabella Wen, a talented grade nine student from Vancouver who actively contributes to the Ripple Foundation’s Wave Blog, to find out more about the organization and what she does.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Ripple Foundation is a 100% volunteer-run national educational charity. Ripple Foundation creates and delivers free community programs advocating creative literacy among children and youth. The benefits of creativity literacy include building confidence, boosting imagination, and promoting creative thinking and problem-solving. As a result, children and youth learn how to express themselves while expanding their reading and writing skills.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Ripple Foundation recognizes the importance of encouraging youth to express themselves. They strive to address the need for creative outlets by providing programs that build imagination, confidence, and leadership skills while nurturing a love for reading and writing and creating a platform for youth voices.
When did you start/join it?
In June 2022, I began writing a blog to share my experiences as a second-generation immigrant and explore the complexities of identity. On October 1, 2022, I had the opportunity to participate in the Wave Blog roundtable as one of the bloggers at the Express Inspire Connect youth conference in their Breakout Session 2, where we discussed various topics with the Wave Blog editor and other bloggers. Continuing my involvement, I applied to be one of the youth speakers for this year’s youth conference. I was delighted to be selected and given the opportunity to address the issue of rising living and tuition costs for students during my talk.
What made you want to get involved?
I was inspired by the Wave Blogs from Ripple Foundation’s programs, it was hard to believe they were written by kids like me! Reading those powerful stories made me realize the impact that youth voices can have, and I wanted to be part of that community. I believe that joining Ripple Foundation would provide me with valuable experiences and the chance to learn from fellow young writers.
What was the situation like when you started? How has it changed since?
When I first started, I was doubtful of my writing abilities and my ideas. The team at Ripple Foundation always supported my stories and found ways to connect with me. They believed in my ideas and provided guidance to help me grow as a writer. After completing my first project with the foundation, I gained confidence in myself and felt more assured in my skills.
What more needs to be done?
It is a continuous mission to provide opportunities for imagination among youth. The foundation aims to reach more students, expand our programs, and continue fostering a love for literacy and creative thinking.
How can our readers help?
Readers can support Ripple Foundation by donating, volunteering, and spreading awareness. By sharing information about Ripple Foundation’s programs, you can help raise awareness about the importance of creative literacy and inspire others to join in. You can DONATE directly or purchase Ripple Foundation’s merchandise, such as organic totes, inspiring tees, or wall art. Not only will you get a unique and meaningful item, but 100% of the proceeds from these sales go back into supporting the organization’s programs. Readers can also purchase paperback books/ebooks Kids Write 4 Kids, the proceeds from these book sales are donated to the winner’s charity of choice.
Do you have any events coming up?
We hold many events, such as virtual youth workshops and conferences. Readers can stay tuned to Ripple Foundation’s website or subscribe to the newsletter for all the latest updates.
Where can we follow you?
Readers can find out more about our programs on our website. They can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I love Low Entropy Foundation, a charity focused on making personal development accessible for all.
