Columbus Foundation Research Paper

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THE COLUMBUS FOUNDATION The Center for Charitable Giving ® Sharing and Caring: Children and Philanthropy M I S S I O N The mission of The Columbus Foundation is to assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all of its citizens. ©2004 T HE C OLUMBUS F OUNDATION Encouraging a Culture of Giving in Your Family Generosity comes from the heart, and is also a thoughtful process. Introducing children of all ages to charitable giving brings unique issues and challenges. The following information can be used as a tool to introduce children to age-appropriate activities that encourage their philanthropic spirit at all stages of development. Promoting charitable giving within a family is a wonderful…show more content…
Young children watch their parents and typically “try on” their parents’ values as a framework for right and wrong. Many of life’s lessons are taught early and often through dinner table discussions, holiday gatherings, and family events. Teenagers increasingly turn to peers, teachers, and others to help sharpen their identity and define their values. They compare their observations and experience in the world against what they have learned at home. Family philanthropy can help children learn the skills and competencies necessary to lead fulfilling lives. The process sends a message to children about the importance of personal and financial generosity—that families have an obligation to others and to make a difference outside of the immediate family. Establishing a Family Tradition of Giving: Your Role Establishing a family tradition is a personal experience; there’s no formula that’s right for everyone. Involving family in charitable giving requires sensitivity to others, a common passion for doing good, and a continuing commitment to producing tangible results. Through sensitivity, passion, and commitment, families can foster a charitable value system and awareness that is rewarding and enduring. Communicate with your children and encourage them to act on their philanthropic…show more content…
Most children are old enough to understand concepts such as helping others and sharing. Introduce allowances to teach your children about saving, budgeting, and giving. Children at this age often enjoy creating rituals for sharing the family’s philanthropic and community values. In many instances, philanthropy can help them build a sense of accomplishment. This may be the right time to introduce your child to the family fund or to give your 11-year-old an opportunity to research organizations to support, perhaps by beginning with visits to youth centers, food banks, or retirement homes. You may also give them charitable solicitation mail to review as a learning experience. Preschool Children Children between the ages of 3 and 5 are in the crucial stage for values formation as they begin to develop compassion and a sense of what is right and wrong. However, their abstract skills are undeveloped, and they respond best to concrete suggestions and activities such as gathering unused toys or buying new toys at holiday time for disadvantaged children. The earliest lessons about giving need to be simple. Hands-on projects should be emphasized. Family celebrations are prime opportunities to create and teach philanthropic lessons and traditions. This is also a good time to introduce the concept of saving money.
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