Road Less Traveled
This unit is based on the philanthropic beliefs of three cultures and their impact on the development of the tradition of philanthropy in the United States.
This lesson may stand on its own as an introduction to the concept of philanthropy or lead into the unit exploring philanthropy of different geographic traditions. Participants listen to a read-aloud picture book that illustrates the value of giving gifts that are good for the giver and receiver. We expand thinking of potential gifts of time, talent, and treasure.
We build empathy and respect for people and giving traditions by listening to stories and traditions of present-day Native Americans. Participants practice listening and taking notes to capture key ideas.
In this lesson, participants read quotes and background on European Americans that exemplify their giving traditions. They listen and summarize passages, and then illustrate one person's view or experience and place the illustration and quote on a classroom timeline in relation to the others' illustrations and quotes (and historical context). They each report on their person in timeline order and discuss similarities across European American views.
Participants read about the philanthropic traditions of early African-American culture and place the values of giving in a hierarchy circle.
We compare and contrast the beliefs of the three cultures explored in lessons 1-4 to one's own family traditions - similarities and differences.