SIERRA DOWD
Founder and Co-President, Be More Heroic
Sierra Dowd has always been a community activist for social change, especially on the issue of bullying. Two years ago, unsatisfied with the limitations of her volunteer work, Dowd quit her 9-to- 5 job in public relations to dedicate herself full-time to create an anti-bullying nonprofit. Thus, Be More Heroic was born. By September 2012, Dowd and her business partner had already developed a two-part curriculum, gathered a team of young activists and started traveling the country. “No one is born with hatred, but somewhere along the way we get lost or feel defeated,” she says. “I believe everyone is still hopeful, they want to see change within themselves and their world. That hope has inspired me to move forward even in the toughest of times, when I couldn’t eat, when I had $2 in my bank account. I’m going to do my best to bring positive change, one community at a time.” Be More Heroic’s progressive approach includes exploring not only the stories of victims, but also teaching the perspective of the bully and the responsibility of the bystander. The interactive program features inspiring personal stories, digital media and music, along with guidance and suggestions. Best of all, Be More Heroic implements a sustainable team program in which students are challenged to build from the service projects that touch their lives. The team program has reached more than 20,000 students nationwide, from elementary schools to the collegiate level. With Dowd behind the wheel, we don’t think this movement will be slowing down anytime soon.
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