Last August I wrote an article about Teens that Inspire. I was astounded at how many people read this article since so many are always drawn to negative news. As 2009 comes to an end, I am thrilled I was able to interview most of these teens and kids (yes, starting at 9 years-old) and shared with you some of their passion for what they do and how they are changing the world one day at a time.

This list is in alphabetical order and I also want to recognize Kids Are Heroes. This organization has many more wonderful kids that are reaching out and stretching boundaries to make positive changes. My list is a small one in comparison to the many that are out there, however these teens/kids have truly inspired me in 2009. Please review the slideshow below to meet them all in person!

Jaylen Arnold, FL: Here is our 9 year-old powerhouse that has made it his mission to reach out and touch so many lives with his big heart and adorable smile. When he speaks, people listen. His mission is: Bullying No Way! Jaylen's Challenge as gained the attention of many media outlets including CBS Nightly News with Katie Couric. Watch his PSA and read more about him – click here.

Zack Gonzalez, CA: 16 year-old Zack is already a published author! His book, Saving Deets, A Family’s Journey with Autism, was released in October. Zack’s brother, Deets, was diagnosed with Autism in 2005. Since then this inspiring teenager has been a voice on this subject and even has his own radio show. Learn more about Zack in my interview with him – click here.

Cati Grant, CA: Love Our Children USA Ambassador, Cati Grant has taken on the mission to bring awareness to both bullying and cyberbullying. This year she was featured on Fox News and also took part in Kids Are Heroe’s Day. Her determination to reach over a million people is paying off with her informational website, CatiCares. Learn more about Cati – click here.

Danielle Herb, FL: Danielle will take you by storm. This young teenager (16 years-old) is often referred to as The Horse Listener. This teen entrepreneur is on a mission to improve the lives of 1,000,000 ADD/ADHD and Autistic children. How? She has organized and created a program called Drop Your Reins. A must read story – click here.

Joni Poole, GA: If you have ever met a person that can take a horrific situation and turn it around, you would have met Joni! Now 18 years-old, Joni survived one of the ugliest and uncomfortable subjects, rape and sexual abuse. As a victim, she not only overcame her traumatic ordeal, she testified against the perpetrator and went on to be a voice for victims of sexual assault and abuse. She founded S.A.A.R.A. Don’t miss her story – click here.

Lane Sutton, MA: This is our 12 year-old Wonder-Kid! Lane came on to Twitter and took many of us by surprise with his maturity and desire to help others, especially kids. He is the one and only KidCritic and is growing his marketing venture before he has even reached his teens! Check him out on my recent interview – click here.

Congratulations to all these wonderful teens and kids that making a difference. May all your hard work continue into 2010 and may you inspire many more to follow your lead.

Watch the slideshow below and meet these great kids! I have listed their websites and Twitter accounts in the slideshow.