ΟΒΑΜΑ FOUNDATION..

2017 was the year we began our work at the Obama Foundation. And you were a part of it. It's been a year of listening, learning, and experimenting to design the most effective ways to inspire and empower people to change their world. We're spending these last few days of 2017 taking stock of what we've done together -- and what we've learned from you. Take a look -- and then tell us something concrete and achievable that you're ready to change in your community in 2018. You told us what you're fighting for, and what you'd like to see us fight for -- and helped us define our mission. "A good citizen is someone who puts the needs of their people above their own -- someone who doesn't choose the easier path but instead digs their heels into the tougher path to forge a new one for others." --Natalie M., Mableton, GA  You've shared what you believe makes a good citizen -- and helped shape our programming. "Even though we're a bunch of teenagers from a variety of backgrounds and skin tones (at a school with a vast range of socioeconomic and demographic situations), we believe that if we choose to celebrate each other and work together, we can truly give life to our mission. We plan a community forum at the end of each school year as a culmination of our work throughout the year, and we will again be staying true to our vision: attendees will include Republicans, Democrats, state legislators, nonprofit advocates, judges, students, school administrators, public servants, and any member of the public who wants to add their voice to the mix." --Sam B., Raleigh, NC  You opened up your favorite spaces for us -- and helped us plan one of our own. "John's Park in Mansfield, Ohio, is a park surrounded by families struggling with poverty. I love this park because it is a gathering place for the community. We have installed a community garden, a mural, and a summer fun program for the youth. Over the last few years it has become the location of a non-violence rally, a basketball tournament, and a place where area organizations teach free classes! I love this park because the community has come together to save it!" --Rochelle J., Mansfield, OH Take a look at how we spent our year -- and what we learned from you. Then, tell us what you're ready to change in your community in 2018. It doesn't have to big and lofty -- it just has to be doable. Each time you share something with us -- whether it's a story, a person we should know, a place, or an idea -- you're actively helping to build this organization. You're adding another brick to a structure that's going to grow strong enough to support millions, equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools they need to change their worlds. Because we're just getting started. We heard from hundreds of thousands of you over the course of this year. And we can't wait to hear from so many more. Thank you, and Happy Holidays. The Obama Foundation Team Donate today to support the Obama Foundation's work: