An important part of philanthropy is grantmaking, which is a gift of money to a nonprofit organization that is doing good things in the community. This guide defines philanthropy, the nonprofit sector, foundations, and grantmaking and then explores the purpose and parts of the grantmaking process.
Learning about issues and using our voice is a right and a civic responsibility and vital to a healthy democracy. Teaching youth at the earliest ages about using their voice prepares them to be civically engaged as adults. It teaches them to learn more about issues and see each person as a valued member of society with an equal vote and an important voice.
These Service Sparks guides provide directions for generous actions that encourage youth voice and promote the common good. Each project includes step-by-step instructions.
Written by Marilyn Goellner
Background
Bernie Sanders identifies himself as a democratic socialist, someone who believes in "an economy that works for all, not just the very wealthy” (Gaudiano, 2015).
A social reformer dedicated to changing conditions for people who could not help themselves, Dorothea Dix was a champion for the mentally ill and the imprisoned. Through her tireless work of over two decades, Dix instituted changes in the treatment and care of the mentally ill and improved prison conditions.
We often hear about the importance of eating three healthy meals a day, however, some of us do not have the resources to even eat one. The problem with hunger and malnutrition is more complex than access to healthy food. It is complicated by multiple societal issues that we can address. Youth are equipped with a voice, heart, and hands to take big and small actions for a meaningful purpose to help raise awareness of and fight the issues of hunger and malnutrition.
