10 / 60
Front Row (left to right): David Compere, Shelly Addington, Ann Marie Baker, Matthew Keeth. Back Row(left to right): Aaron Emel, Justin Butler, Byron Pierce
If asked, most people could readily name several
influential philanthropists. From Bill and Melinda Gates
to Bono and Mark Zuckerberg, some people are well-
known for their generosity.
However, ask the same people what parents can do to
raise children to emulate this type of generosity, and the
response might come much more slowly, if at all.
The fact is that while many are mindful of encouraging
children to help make the world a better place for future
generations, they may not know exactly how to do it.
Why is this important?
By fostering the idea of giving from a young age,
children can learn the values and joy in helping, sharing
and giving to those who have less than them.
Instilling the core ideals of philanthropy in our chil-
dren’s lives can also help them develop a sense of
purpose and self. The key is to educate and give them
something to emulate.
Giving comes in multiple forms
People tend to automatically think of financial giving,
but that’s just the beginning—there are many ways to be
a philanthropist. Giving personal time or volunteering,
engaging in advocacy, or giving material goods are also
ways philanthropists can make a positive impact.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Volunteer-
ing in the United States 2015 survey, 26.6 percent of
teenagers (ages 16-19) spent time volunteering. Philan-
thropy is so popular among Generation Z, this genera-
tion has even earned the nickname “philanthroteens.”
Little actions can have big results
It is also important to help children realize that it’s
not always the size of the gift that matters. Accord-
ing to the Giving USA: 2015 report, $264.58 billion in
contributions came from individuals, proving that $20,
$10 or even $1 contributions can make a huge impact.
Teaching children how their contributions, regardless
of size, can make a difference to someone is extremely
important in establishing giving values.
The more we do it, the easier it comes
As with anything, frequency helps establish habits.
Being mindful of tying in philanthropic lessons in every-
day life will help children understand there are more
than enough opportunities to help—it’s just a matter of
recognizing them. A few suggestions:
• Share family values and any time devoted to a char-
itable organization. By making this part of normal
conversation, it becomes natural for children to talk
openly about giving habits.
• Use allowances as a tool for teaching both money
management and charitable giving.
• Promote everyday acts of kindness, particularly for
those less fortunate.
• Ask children what areas of concern are important to
them and actively support.
Age is just a number, but giving is forever
Philanthropy is possible at all ages—it just takes a
little creativity. Here are some ideas for toddlers to
high schoolers.
Ages three to 11
• Make a “charity” jar for a portion of their allowance.
Let the child decide when and where to donate.
Consider matching your child’s donation.
• Visit a charity or event, asking the child for input in
selection and planning.
• Throw a charitable birthday party, where instead
of gifts, guests bring an item to support the child’s
charity of choice.
Ages 12-14
• Give your child a charitable budget and ask them
to conduct research and make decisions about
distributions.
• Encourage children to research and select their
own volunteer opportunities.
• Identify neighbors who may need help and look
for opportunities to assist. Picking up sticks after
a storm, writing letters, making and delivering a
snack or simply spending time with someone are
personal activities that can make a lasting impres-
sion.
High school
• Research and plan a volunteer day with friends or
make a long-term volunteer commitment.
• Find out what is needed by an organization, then
collect clothes, canned goods, paper products and
personal items.
• Use social media and public advocacy through
school, church or social groups to help and high-
light good work being done by organizations.
• Explore alternative spring break trips to spend time
volunteering.
Raising a philanthropist takes time and is a conscious
commitment. Giving children the example and tools
they need to create and live philanthropic values can
empower them in creating an empathetic society that
continues to make the world a better place.
How to Raise a Philanthropist
GIVING
SPRINGFIELD BUSINESS JOURNAL 10 · 2017 GG