Activity 1.3.1 The $20 Bill

Purpose

To gain a wider perspective on acknowledging the value of people

Materials

A crisp $20 bill

Time

15–20 mins

Method

1. The facilitator holds up a $20 bill and asks if anyone would like it. Acknowledge those who put up their hand.
2. Now crumple the bill in your hand and ask again if anyone would like the money. Again, ensure you acknowledge those who raise their hand.
3. Next, throw the money on the floor and step on it. Grind it into the floor a little bit. (Facilitators should muster a little drama with these actions.)
4. Now ask if anyone would still like this $20 bill. Acknowledge the participants who still want the money.
5. Ask participants why they still want the $20, or explain to the class that although the $20 was crumpled and stepped on, it still has value. It is still worth $20. Like people, “No matter how many times someone has been crumpled or stepped on, they still have value.”
6. Guide a discussion with participants on the value of people. Do they agree when someone is “down and out” that they should be treated with respect? How does our society help people and why?