Every day, we make choices about what to eat based on our health and what we like and can afford. As global citizens who care about the good of all, we can also be aware of making food choices based on our impact on an interconnected system.
When you are interested in taking action to make a change, it is helpful to first get a clear picture of what resources exist in your community and where the gaps are. This activity helps young people plot specific resources on a map, which helps identify patterns and connections and builds evidence and partnerships for taking steps to make a change. change.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Philanthropy is often equated with giving money, but every culture has its own rich tradition of giving, which may look like sacrificial generosity, community support, networking, or speaking up for necessary changes. What generosity do you see in your own family and neighborhood? In this activity, youth look for and capture the stories of philanthropy that express loving and powerful cultural practices.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Add a variety of cultural holidays to your annual calendar to raise awareness of the variety of ways people celebrate their cultural traditions. Learning about other cultures helps us see the beauty in our similarities and differences. We can reflect on whether there are core values in every culture and how our differences add interest and strength to our community.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Plan an event that recognizes and celebrates the variety of cultures in your community. Invite the entire community to attend in order to learn about and connect with their neighbors.
Ignite meaningful action that lights up the world through "Service Sparks" youth projects! Learn about ways people with different disabilities gain equitable access to places. As you walk through the community look at ways we make places more accessible for people with vision, hearing, or mobility issues. When there is room for improvement, take action to raise awareness of needs.
These great books help us talk about giving, social justice, diverse people and cultures, challenges people face, and the value of community. We have combined selected literature with thought-provoking discussions and activities. The conversations inspire young people to explore their philanthropic identity. Reading with someone is an opportunity for developing relationships and curiosity across ages and differences.
White Papers provide abbreviated snapshots of significant concepts, people, and organizations related to philanthropy. They are appropriate for teens and adults interested in learning more about philanthropy.
What is something that makes you excited to get up in the morning and gives you energy? Whatever that vision is, that is your "spark." Young people may not know what their spark is today, and it may change many times over their lives, but we can start today to explore how generosity could spark meaning in one's day and life.
This resource was developed in collaboration with the Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) Youth Philanthropy Task Force powered by Michigan youth, CMF members, and nonprofit leaders. For links to all the resources,...
