Woodstock Teen Named Hasbro Community Action Hero

WOODSTOCK, GA -- Global toy company Hasbro, Inc. recently announced that 10 youths were named Hasbro Community Action Heroes, including a teenager from Woodstock.

The award recognizes young volunteers whose service achievements have demonstrated the qualities of a hero – kindness, courage and leadership – to serve their communities.

Aidan Thomas Anderson, 15, is the creator of Aidan Cares, which allows him to "share the necessity and joy of giving with all ages," according to the website.

Aidan's love of music inspired him to realize he could make a difference after donating the tips he made playing his harmonica to help kids in Africa get much-needed medications. Now he wants to help teach his generation to give back through the Aidan Cares initiative.

The 10 winners, ages 5 to 17, are taking action to help to address important social issues through volunteerism, from persuading state officials to pass an anti-bullying law to creating an organization that promotes the inclusion of kids with intellectual disabilities.

Each Hero will receive a $1,000 educational scholarship and a $500 grant to their selected nonprofit to help them continue and further their mission.

“At Hasbro, we’re inspired by these young leaders and the work they’re doing to affect positive change in their communities,” said Karen Davis, Hasbro's senior vice president of global philanthropy and social impact. “As we work to encourage empathy and action among youth, we’re honored to celebrate our 2016 Hasbro Community Action Heroes who demonstrate leadership, passion and kindness.”

The 10 heroes were chosen from hundreds of inspiring nominations. The winners will be recognized in February at the New York International Toy Fair where they will work together to complete a service project.

Now in its seventh year, the Hasbro Community Action Heroes program is part of Hasbro’s recently announced BE FEARLESS BE KIND initiative, which is designed to inspire and empower kids to have the empathy, compassion and courage to stand up for others and be inclusive throughout their lives.

Parents and educators can visit the program's website to access free resources and tools that can help to teach empathy and put it into action.

Image via Aidan Cares Facebook page