We each have gifts we can use to give our lives purpose and make the world better. Using our gifts for the good of others can solve problems, if we take bold and selfless action. Even very young people are capable of the kind of selfless actions that create positive change.
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Unit: Selflessness in Community
Unit: Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Youth Activity: Participants will discover that sharing and trust are important parts of philanthropic action. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.
“The point is not to pay back kindness but to pass it on.” ~Julia Alvaraz
Unit: Grow Involved 6-8
In this lesson, youth discuss the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and especially focus on his ethic of service.
Unit: Time, Talent, Treasure, and Economics
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,...
Unit: Early American Influences
Benjamin Franklin's work was in service to making a better world, and he influenced the nonprofit sector. His book, Poor Richards Almanack, makes connections to the common good through personal virtue and actions. The participants choose quotes to create posters that communicate...
Unit: Bully-Free Zone
The learners reflect on a literature book written from the viewpoint of someone who used to bully others, Confessions of a Former Bully. They analyze the data collected from their survey to determine how bullying behavior affects their school. They learn that addressing...
Unit: Civil War Philanthropy
We learn about the brave work of a Quaker, Laura Smith Haviland, who used her ties and talent to lead anti-slavery work before, during, and after the Civil War.
Unit: Character Education: Integrity (Grade 8)
We explore the integrity of Elizabeth Cady Stanton who fought for the rights of women when many people disagreed they should be allowed to vote. She was strong in her cause for women, but in the mid-1800s, she didn't speak up for Black women who were fighting the same right to vote.
Unit: Roots of Philanthropy (Teen)
This energizer activity provides a fast and fun way to learn about the word philanthropy and its meaning.
"My friends are much more likely to get involved if word gets out that what we are doing is fun. We need to get that message out. We need to be the messengers."
Unit: Philanthropy and Children Who Are Homeless
Students read about the Orphan Train and compare and contrast how that philanthropic effort has evolved today.