My Hero Updates

Dr. Ballard and The JASON Project
MY HERO staff followed the JASON Project on their 2003 expedition, "JASON XIV: From Shore to Sea." We accompanied them to the Channel Islands off the coast of Ventura, California. Students, teachers and research scientists broadcasted information about the islands to the National Geographic Channel. Featured stories can be found in the "Science" category, and detail how kids can get started their own science career.

Children's Wish Foundation presented young Mattie Stepanek with a computer to help him realize his dream to be a published author.

Mattie Stepanek was five years old when he was nominated as a hero by Jim Hawkins of Children's Hospice International. For years, Mattie shared the story of his life, his poems, and his hopes and dreams on the MY HERO website. In 1998, Mattie's three wishes were posted on the site: 1) to be a guest on the Oprah Winfrey show, 2) to meet his hero, Jimmy Carter, and 3) to publish a book of poetry. By 2001, all of his wishes were fulfilled. Since then, Mattie's books -- Heartsongs, Journey Through Heartsongs, Celebrate Through Heartsongs, Loving Through Heartsongs, and the CD by Billy Gilman inspired by Mattie, Music Through Heartsongs -- have touched the hearts of people around the world.

Sign Mattie's Guestbook and add your thoughts to this growing online tribute to the remarkable young poet and peacemaker.
 

A note from Jeanne Meyers Producer and Co-Founder of MY HERO "When I first met Nathan Smith he was a thirteen year old teaching assistant in Gary Birch's multimedia class at Laguna College of Art. Nathan (now 21 years old) has created some wonderful features for MY HERO including: The Wheel of Faith, Black History Month, Mother's Day, Earth Day, and more... Thanks to Nathan, and all the artists, writers, students, teachers, programmers, volunteers and sponsors who keep MY HERO a dynamic interactive online journal. Contact myhero@myheroproject.org

Do you know of a radio segment, TV special or print magazine feature that celebrates the best of humanity?

The MY HERO PROJECT's goal is to provide positive role models in the MEDIA. To further promote hero stories in the MEDIA, we are launching the Media Watch program showcasing media presentations that recognize those making a positive difference in our world.

MY HERO asks media professionals, teachers and students to nominate stories in the media that "highlight those who make a difference." Together we can help promote good news by sharing these media resources with other educators online on the MY HERO calendar.

Please notify the MY HERO staff at myhero@myheroproject.org with your nominations.

MY HERO is featured on the "Not For Profit Profiles" television series

Host Brian Seltzer interviewed members of the MY HERO team about the history, design and use of the project in schools. Meg Richardson produces this series for Santa Monica, City TV. Thanks to Steve Grace, LA Channel 36 and Santa Monica City TV, for spreading the word about the MY HERO Project!

(copies of this program may be available for educational, cable and public television broadcast, contact myhero@myheroproject.org for more information.)