Through discussion and response to literature, we define philanthropy as the sharing of time, talent, and treasure for the common good. Participants reflect on the benefit of philanthropy to the giver and receiver.

Introduce the folksinger, Woody Guthrie, and his legendary song This Land Is Your Land. Talk about ways we are generous for the good of others. This can be by lifting someone's spirits or taking care of the land we all share. 

In the book, Miss Tizzy, the repetition and days of the week make this warm neighborhood story predictable. Miss Tizzy is generous with the neighborhood children in so many ways. How do the children take action when Miss Tizzy gets ill?

This lesson introduces Alfred Nobel and his legacy, the Nobel Peace Prize. 

Through a story in which a child inspires her neighborhood to improve a vacant lot, young people recognize that they can have a positive impact on others. They brainstorm a philanthropic project to benefit the school or larger community.

In this lesson, young people identify idioms in the book Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen. They discuss the meanings of idioms and talk about hurtful language in the literal meaning of some idioms.  They may playfully modify idioms to reflect a philanthropic heart.

Children learn about caring and sharing through discussion of the book Martin's Big Words. The lesson introduces the "big" word philanthropy (giving time, talent, and treasure for the common good). 

This lesson is a reflection on the beach clean-up experience.