Tips For Encouraging Your Child To Be Philanthropic

1. Identify a need.
   The recipient of your philanthropy could be a friend from school, someone you saw on the news or read about who needs help, or an organization in your community with a specific need (such as a church, school, or community center).  It is important that the cause is meaningful to your child and to let your child choose the cause or recipient himself/herself.
2. Plan the event.
   Keep it simple and be creative!  There are countless ways to give, and countless things to give – not only money, but also time, talents, donated items, and more.  So use your imagination.  Some tried and true ideas of fundraising activities for children of all ages include:  a lemonade stand (or other food stand), car wash, coin drive, can drive, backyard carnival, race/walk/athletic contest, bake sale, toy drive, garage sale, clothes drive, and so many others.
3. Every little bit counts.
   Remember – even a little bit can help a lot.  So don’t let the amount you raise define success of the event.  One dollar, ten dollars or one hundred dollars – it all adds up.
4. Have fun!
   Engage others in your event, including friends, family, neighbors, and classmates.  It makes the effort more fun, spreads interest in the cause, and inspires others to be philanthropic.  It’s also a great socializing opportunity.  By making philanthropy fun, children will become lifelong givers!