Yesterday, President Barack Obama delivered his third annual back-to-school speech at Benjamin Banneker Academic High School in Washington, D.C.

The president’s back-to-school speech was an opportunity for him to speak to students directly. His message to the students was that they don’t have to wait until they’re older to make a mark on their communities.

President Obama stressed the urgent need for bright young minds to speak up:

“We need you now. America needs your passion, your ideas and your energy right at this moment."

The president highlighted three students, Jake Bernstein, Amy Chyao, and Will Kim that are doing extraordinary things in their communities.

Jake Bernstein, is a member of generationOn’s Youth Advisory Council. Jake, 17, volunteers at local food drives, car washes and at his local crisis nursery. For the last two years, he has recruited youth from local area schools to help raise awareness about childhood hunger. He’s also built his own website that helps young people find volunteer opportunities.

Students like Jake remind us every day that you don’t have to be big to make a difference; all you need is an idea.

You can find ways that students can make their mark in their community by visiting generationOn’s Make Your Mark Week page for more information on how to make your mark on your community!