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The Decision Maker

Tell someone in charge of your school's dining services to make a change before your health suffers. First, do some research to find out who makes the decision about which dining service gets a contract with your school. You could go to your principal or ask a teacher. If that doesn’t work, find the names of some members of the Board of Education on a school newsletter and try to call them.

Writing a petition is a great way to encourage change or peacefully protest a policy. You'll need to sell people on why this issue is a problem and get their support.

Identify Your Target

Which organization, elected official, or company do you want to take action on this issue? Your target could range from a media corporation to a political party. In some cases, you could have multiple targets.

You've probably heard a bazillion times from teachers, websites, and anyone who hears you complain about something in your community: "Why don't you write a letter?" So now we are saying it too: WRITE A LETTER! Officials will listen, especially if they are local leaders.

Find The Right Person

Figure out who should get your letter.

Who you choose is up to you but local officials are usually best. Click your way to your town's website to find the names and addresses of town and school officials.

Not only can surveys be very powerful, but they can also increase awareness about a cause you care about. Your survey results can give you information about what people think and believe about specific issues/topics. 

1. Get the go ahead. You don’t want to get on your principal’s bad side so first make sure that he or she is okay with this sort of thing.
2. Get your teachers on board. Have the teachers promise to do something crazy if you reach a certain goal, like promise to wear a ridiculous t-shirt to work or shave their heads. The hope of punishing a teacher has a certain way of inspiring people.