Giving Back During the Holidays

The holidays are a great time to start teaching your kids about giving to those in need.  The earlier kids are taught about giving, the more likely it is that they will make philanthropy a habit that they carry on into adulthood.  The Junior League of Summit recognizes the benefit of teaching children about philanthropy and shares some ideas below on how families can engage in charitable giving and volunteer during the holidays and throughout the rest of the year.   

According to developmental psychologist Marilyn Price-Mitchell, the benefits of charitable giving extend beyond the direct recipients, as it can have a tremendous positive impact on the children who are learning about philanthropy and can bring families closer as well.  Not only does philanthropy help children learn social consciousness, compassion and selflessness, but children who perform charitable acts feel empowered and experience increased well-being.  Kids who engage in philanthropy gain skills such as confidence in public speaking, research skills, fundraising and entrepreneurial skills and organization.  They learn how small acts of kindness can have a positive impact on their community - which may even inspire them to become a change maker on a larger scale. 

What are some ways you can teach your children about philanthropy?  The website learningtogive.org recommends that, in addition to talking to your kids about the importance of philanthropy, parents should model voluntary behavior for their kids and provide safe and supportive opportunities for them to engage in giving activities.  It could be as simple as having children set aside a portion of their allowance or birthday money for “sharing” with the charity of their choice or creating traditions involving giving, such as having each family member donate a book to the library on their birthday.  Other great ways to teach children about charity and volunteering include organizing a neighborhood food or toy drive, visiting a local nursing home or helping out at a local pet rescue shelter.   The website VolunteerMatch.org has some great ideas for volunteering opportunities in our community. 

During the holiday season, there are even more opportunities to show your kids how important philanthropy is.  If you are hosting a holiday party, ask guests to bring clothing to be donated to a local shelter.  Instead of the usual stocking stuffers, add charitable donations or gift cards (such as Razoo eGiving Cards) to holiday gifts.   At your holiday cookie party, bake some extra goodies to be donated to a community center.   Encourage your child to donate one holiday gift they receive to a less fortunate child.

The JLS hopes these suggestions inspire you to make time during this busy time of year to show your kids what philanthropy is about and how important it is to the community.  We wish you a happy holiday season and happy new year!