Play matching games on teams to gain familiarity with terms associated with philanthropy.

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty

Using different approaches, the group develops a working understanding of the definition of philanthropy.

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty

Community members share stories of experiences in philanthropy.

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty

Many people have a difficult time distinguishing between acts of kindness and acts of philanthropy. Using the definition of philanthropy from the “Defining Philanthropy” lesson, youth will examine various situations and decide which ones are acts of philanthropy. They may discover that empathy is at the heart of both actions.  

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty

These activities help youth see the web of communities to which they belong and define what it means to be a member of a community.

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty at Westminster

Discussion of the book The Three Questions guides youth to be aware of people and needs around them and the importance of service as a response to the needs of others.

Author: Urban EdVenture Faculty at Westminster

Youth Activity: This interactive activity helps young people understand philanthropy and the language used when describing philanthropic actions. The facilitator sets the tone for a “fun” experience with words.

Youth Activity: Participants will re-examine the definition of philanthropy and recognize philanthropic traits. They will begin to understand philanthropy and see themselves as philanthropists. Participants will begin to see themselves in a “new light” and reflect on how they may want to give of their time, talent, and treasure. They will become aware of others in the community who are philanthropists.

Youth Activity: Participants will discover how their time can equal treasure for organizations in the community. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

"My call tonight is for every American to commit at least two years, or 4,000 hours, over the rest of your lifetime to the service of your neighbors and your nation." ~President George W. Bush

Youth Activity: Participants will gain a greater understanding of the meaning of philanthropy, and identify at least one action that they can take to better their own community. They will investigate the strength of the human spirit and its importance in making the world better. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions. Religious perspective attached.

“I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart.” ~ Anne Frank (1930-1944)