1. TRASH PILES UP

People in Havana, Cuba, are dealing with huge piles of garbage that are building up in neighborhoods. One reason is that there is not enough fuel to keep many garbage trucks running. Some trash piles have become so large that they block sidewalks and even the entrances to homes. The garbage attracts flies, mosquitoes, rats, and other pests that can spread diseases. Residents and workers are frustrated because the problem has lasted for years. Government leaders are trying different ways to clean up the trash, but many people say more needs to be done to keep neighborhoods healthy and safe. Imagine your town is creating a “Clean Community Day.” Design a poster encouraging people to help keep their neighborhood clean. Include a title, a picture, and three ways people can reduce litter. Then write 3–4 sentences explaining why keeping streets clean is important for people, animals, and the environment.

2. SHELTERS MAKE WAY FOR PETS

More shelters are beginning to allow people to bring their pets with them when they need a safe place to stay. Many people see their pets as part of their family and do not want to leave them behind. Some shelters now provide pet food, crates, washing stations, and veterinary care. Leaders say pet-friendly shelters can help people leave dangerous situations or accept shelter more easily. These programs are growing, but there are still not enough pet-friendly shelters to meet the need in many communities. Think about a pet or animal that is important to someone. Write a letter to a shelter director explaining why allowing pets can help families during difficult times. Include at least three reasons and describe how the shelter could safely care for both people and animals.

3. ON THE BALLOT

Voters in Alaska may see something unusual on their election ballot this year. Two different people named Dan Sullivan are running for the same U.S. Senate seat. One is the current senator, and the other is a former teacher from Alaska. Some people worry that having two candidates with the same name could confuse voters. Election officials plan to include the candidates’ middle initials to help tell them apart. The unusual situation has become a major topic of discussion in Alaska politics. Have you ever shared a name with someone else in your class, school, or community? Write a short story about two people with the same name who keep getting mixed up. Explain the problem they face and create a clever solution that helps everyone know who is who.

4. CONCERTS FOR A CAUSE

Thousands of people attend concerts held under the Kosciuszko Bridge in Brooklyn, New York. The events have become very popular and have raised millions of dollars for local parks. Money from ticket fees helps pay for gardening, maintenance, and community programs in more than 40 parks and open spaces. Organizers call it “partying with a purpose” because people enjoy music while helping support their neighborhood. The concerts show how creative ideas can bring communities together and improve public spaces. Imagine your community wants to raise money for a local park. Create a plan for a fun event that families could attend. Describe the event, explain how it would raise money, and tell how the funds would help improve the park. Include a drawing or diagram of your event.

5. BUILDING COMMUNITY AT A COMPETITION

Tennis players Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend organized a dinner for Black players before the French Open tennis tournament. The gathering gave players a chance to spend time together, share experiences, and celebrate their community. Both players said it can sometimes feel lonely being part of a minority group in a sport where not many athletes look like them. Many people supported the event, while others questioned it online. The players said the dinner helped build friendship, support, and a sense of belonging. Communities often celebrate shared experiences, interests, or traditions. Think of a group you belong to, such as a sports team, club, class, or neighborhood. Plan a special gathering for that group. Write a paragraph explaining what people would do at the event, how it would help everyone feel welcome, and why spending time together can strengthen friendships.