Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Stanley and Zero’s Nonprofit”

Use details from the novel to determine what Zero and Stanley are passionate about to create a nonprofit in their name.

In the novel, Zero and Stanley undergo various hardships but ultimately gain a million dollars each with their discovery of Kissin’ Kate’s gold. Consider how Zero and Stanley might use the funds or create a nonprofit to benefit other children who are without homes, illiterate, or accused of delinquent behavior. Use details from the novel to draw conclusions about what Zero and Stanley might be passionate about. Consider the questions below to develop your nonprofit.

• What is the name of your nonprofit?
• What do you think Stanley is passionate about?
• What might Zero be passionate about?
• How will your nonprofit benefit others in situations similar to those experienced by Stanley and Zero?
• How will your nonprofit generate funds?

Present your nonprofit idea to your peers, supporting your thoughts with details from the novel.

Teaching Suggestion: It may be beneficial to discuss some of the struggles Stanley and Zero faced separately and together, such as wrongful convictions, juvenile justice, homelessness, or illiteracy, to inspire nonprofit ideas.