BY LAUREN WALSH, CAPACITY BUILDING AMERICORPS MEMBER
Now, more than ever, is the time to get better connected with your community and teach your children about the importance of making human connections and reaching out to others. “Philanthropy” is a pretty big word, one that your kids may not be able to say on their first try, but it’s meaning is something they already have. Studies show that children begin developing empathy at ages 3-5, and they experience positive feelings when sharing their own things and being generous. It is important to build off of this so your child can grow into a lifelong philanthropist and community member.
The first step is to act as an example. You need to show your children what it is to give to others and then follow up with a discussion about it. Studies show that children are more likely to donate if their parents do, but that likelihood sees a significant increase when parents stop to talk about why they are donating.
Next is to identify what your child is interested in. Make a list about what you and your child believe are the needs that exist in your community. Then, ask them which feels most important to them and brainstorm some things you can do to help. The act of giving and where they give should be entirely their choice. If you force charity on your children, it won’t teach the lesson it’s supposed to teach and it will just feel like a chore.
With younger children, it is important to start by donating goods rather than money, since they understand things like food more than they do a debit card or cash. Take a trip to the store and buy goods to drop off at the local food pantry, or collect old clothes around the house and bring them to a homeless shelter. Having your children give away some of their own belongings will also teach them about sacrifice and teach them more about the importance of giving. While doing this, make sure your children understand the impact they are making. This can be done through pictures, listening to people’s stories, or videos about the non-profit you choose to donate to. Many non-profits will even give you a tour of what they do.
Eventually, you begin volunteering together. This will allow them to foster connections with vulnerable populations and really see the difference they are making. What your kids should take away from these lessons is that philanthropy is not just about money (although that works too), but it is about making a difference, seeing the difference, and helping yourself and other people realize that you are not alone in this world.
