But the Creature Teachers aren’t the “latest product sold in toy stores everywhere.” They are the creation of three students who developed the plan for their dream business last month, during a Social Entrepreneurship Camp at the British International School of Boston (BISB).
The camp was organized and led by One Hen, Inc., a Boston-based nonprofit whose mission is to empower kids to become social entrepreneurs who make a difference in the world. The organization equips educators around the world with resources that help guide children in developing personal initiative, financial literacy, global awareness and philanthropic commitment.
“Our camp helps kids use their skills and passions to develop small businesses and raise money to support social causes they care about. After a week of planning their businesses, interacting with entrepreneur guest speakers, and visiting local companies and charities, kids feel inspired and empowered to help those in their communities and world,” said Jessica Charles, One Hen’s Program Manager.
For example, one day the 13 campers visited The Haley House Bakery, where they had a chance to meet the organization’s managers and staff. During this visit, the children learned how Haley House helps homeless people by providing healthy, organic, affordable food to its patrons and employment opportunities and on-the-job training for those seeking to become financially independent.
The campers also learned from some of Boston’s young entrepreneurs, who visited the camp to share their stories of developing and founding businesses. Among those entrepreneurs was Daniel Rechel, founder and president of the local fashion company The Definition of Nyce (D.O.N.). The kids were amused to learn that D.O.N. creates clothing branded with positive messages, such as “I Smile at Strangers” and “Keep Love Alive.” Daniel also told the campers that The D.O.N. donates 100 percent of its profits to local youth charities and organizations and works with young people in the community to design and promote its clothing.
“Kids get to check out the entrepreneurs’ products and marketing materials and ask them questions about how they got started and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. Each guest shows them a new side of entrepreneurship, and many times, these visits energize kids towards pursuing their own business and charity projects,” said Charles.
Learn more about the social entrepreneurship camp on One Hen Inc.'s blog, where BISB Communications Manager Danielle Gagnon shares more about the students' learning during this program.