Sean Penn inspires Coachella-goers to take action

Actor-activist puts together Dirty Hands Caravan bound for New Orleans

Actor Sean Penn announced a volunteer initiative at the Coachella Festival today (April 27), encouraging young people to "take action".

The actor, who is also known for his political activism, invited festival-goers to "be spontaneous" and join a cross-country bio-diesel bus caravan, dubbed The Dirty Hands Caravan, that leaves from the Coachella campground for New Orleans tomorrow (April 28).

"This is about volunteerism," he said from the main stage, just before My Morning Jacket's set. "Revolution is a young man's job and you can be the revolution."

Ben Harper and Everlast are also taking part in the Dirty Hands Caravan, and will serenade participants at their campfires at night, Penn said.

Volunteers will be encouraged to get involved by building houses for the homeless, protesting the Iraq war while supporting the needs of veterans and their families, caring for the sick or needy, cleaning up parks or neighbourhoods across America, and contributing to their communities in various ways.

The caravan is scheduled to arrive in New Orleans on Sunday (May 4) to help close out the city's Jazz and Heritage Festival.

The buses are set to depart from the Coachella parking lot in Indio, California tomorrow (April 28) at noon. For further information, visit Coachella.com.