Ted Turner, the real Captain Planet, inspired youth to find their superpower
By: Leesa Carter-Jones for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ted Turner’s vision for a superhero to save the planet inspired the creation of the Captain Planet Foundation (CPF) and the beloved animated series “Captain Planet and the Planeteers.” Recognizing that future generations needed to love nature and work together on environmental problems, the foundation began by supporting youth-led projects through grants and later expanded its mission to empower young people directly, mirroring the spirit of the show.
The Planeteers, five teenagers from different continents, showed that collaboration and shared purpose could overcome environmental threats. This message took root not just in fiction but in the real world, where CPF’s programs and the Planeteer Alliance have united thousands of young people across 100 countries to tackle challenges like deforestation and plastic pollution with creativity, courage, and heart.
Ted Turner’s legacy lives on through CPF and an ecosystem of organizations dedicated to a sustainable, peaceful future. The foundation’s president, Leesa Carter-Jones, continues to champion youth-powered change, encouraging everyone to invest in young leaders and work together to build a livable future for all.