Giving homemade blankets to help people who are homeless or young people in the hospital is a form of philanthropy (giving treasure). What is the best way to donate? Using a decision-making model, the young people compare blanket projects and determine whether they have the time, talent, and treasure to help fill a need. They determine what their opportunity cost will be to participate in the project. Finally they will vote for the project of their choice.

When the site is selected, they make a final plan for what plants to put into the garden based on soil, location, and availability. They make a plan to seek donations of plants or funds for their garden.

Participants define what they want to accomplish for the community garden and identify a place that is available and has the right conditions. This requires research and permissions. 

Young people demonstrate that differences can be discussed and worked through kindly and playfully. When we disagree, curiosity and creativity can help us talk openly. Conflict isn't comfortable, but we have the curiosity and skills to get through. 

Introduce the concept of philanthropy and guide the learners to be philanthropists who take volunteer action for the common good.

The book, The Gardener, by Sarah Stewart gently illustrates how sharing growing things can be a gift to others and the community. 

Participants use langauge and art to illustrate the vocabulary of philanthropy and the importance of the tradition of philanthropy to the community.