Politicians, performers and marketers all use key moments to grab attention in order to achieve their goals. Politicians select when and where to deliver an important speech. Musicians choose when and how to launch a new CD. Both want to find an edge that will make them stand out, get more votes or sell more CDs. Technology marketing offers another example. Apple's pre-release hype for the iPhone in the United States helped to create near hysteria that led to massive sales. Strategic planning pays off!

So why not use these techniques for more than just profit? Strategic and creative thinking makes social activism even stronger. The people behind the Make Poverty History campaign realized this concept. They synthesized their message into three clear goals, and offered the world a single symbol-the white band-to indicate support. Then they launched the campaign worldwide by taking over Trafalgar Square in London, England and wrapped the place with white bands. Millions globally wore the band, and G8 leaders made policy changes as a result.

So what could you do at your school? Here are some strategic questions to ask as you plan for action:

1. What do you want to accomplish?
Gather a group of friends and together consider what you'd like to accomplish throughout the entire school year. Choose specific issues and set realistic goals to achieve by the end of the year.

2. What are the key moments in your school calendar?
September and January are key moments for launching new programs and recruiting members. Check your school calendar and look for other dates that you might adapt to help reach your goals.

3. Do you create buzz for the activity?
Make intriguing posters or announcements with messages like "It's coming—March 22. Be there." Subsequent posters or announcements can answer the many questions that people have.

4. Is it creative?
Get creative in adapting resources and building partnerships. Thus, on World Water Day, you might put labels on all the water bottles for sale in your school indicating different key facts about water usage. A good example is "1 in 6 people worldwide do not have access to clean drinking water". Follow up the buzz you've created with an announcement that invites people to join your campaign or event. Make sure that a clear connection exists between your creativity and the action you want people to take.

5. Is it cool?
If you want a lot of people to get involved, you'll need to heighten the cool factor. Schedule exciting events such as a concert, giveaways or prizes that encourage student leaders from different areas to participate.

6. Do you have clearance?
Ensure that you have the permission of your school administration before you start any undertaking. A clear plan inspires confidence!

After working through all these items, you'll be ready to act. Put your plan into action! Dream big, get creative, and seize the moment! Big things happen when people take bold steps. And drop us a note when you do. (youth@worldvision.ca) We want to hear about your plans. We might even feature you in an upcoming issue of Shift, our bimonthly newsletter!