Young Adult culture as Social Change

It is a good source for learning because it presents kids with an opportunity to get involved in their communities and interact with society. Volunteering in organizations is beneficial to teaching and learning because it reinforces helping others and solving problems. Fandom Forward is a very interesting resource for teaching and learning because it's a non-profit organization based on Harry Potter fans, however, it provides students in the classroom a more entertaining way to care about reading books or learning in general. Raising awareness for certain societal issues as well as raising for books can do a great deal in enhancing a learner's motivation to read and improve within their education.

It would be a mistake to dismiss the HPA as crass attempt to capitalize on the Harry Potter franchise in the name of charitable good. A review of their website and its entry on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter_Alliance) demonstrate that they are a serious non-profit engaged with significant social issues. Mature middle school students and high school students who are looking for social justice causes are the best fit. The HPA could form the basis for a wonderful unit in project-based learning, especially for students who were (or are) enraptured by the Harry Potter book series. It would be important that students understand that the HPA is not a Potter fan club or fan fiction site, but is rather based on the themes of justice, sacrifice, human rights, and equity that are present in J.K. Rowlings writing. The only "magic" in this site is that which results from people working together to right a wrong. Students will learn that you can't wave a wand to make things better, but with perseverance and hard work you can make a difference. Your students may initially wish to affiliate with a local chapter (listed on the site), comprised mostly of high school, university, and community organizations. Internet access means that even if there is not a chapter in your local area, you could talk to one or two in your region. Alternatively, you could add an international element to the project by connecting with any of the dozens of overseas chapters. It would be important that students engage in more that simple fundraising for HPA but also learn activist skills to raise awareness and support within their local community, including thought leaders from government, business, and non-profits. This will require a significant commitment from an adult supervisor who can facilitate introductions and help students navigate the system. HPA engages in fundraising for its 501c.3 activities. It also offers merchandise, some of which is clearly aimed at older students or adults, such as a t-shirt promoting Dumbledore's Bass Ass Army. You do not want your students buying and wearing to school anything contrary to student dress regulations.