Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)

Unit of 7 Lessons
Grade Levels: 
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Subjects: 
Language Arts
Philanthropy
Mathematics
Arts Education
Social Studies
Health and PE
Issue Area: 
Civil society
Focus Question 

What is philanthropy? What are ways we give our time, talent, and treasure for the common good?

Unit Overview 

Youth Activities: These seven interactive and reflective activities are designed to be used in small or large groups. May be used in classrooms or youth groups, such as Youth Advisory Committees, to teach fundamental concepts of philanthropy. Youth define philanthropy, explore their own giving passions, and have fun brainstorming creative ways to contribute. Attached are variations appropriate for spiritual or faith-based groups. Jewish, Christian, and Muslim perspectives included.

Lessons in This Unit 
Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 1 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6

Youth Activity: Participants recognize a wide variety of philanthropic actions through fun and active participation. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

"If every American donated five hours a week, it would equal the labor of 20 million full-time volunteers." ~Whoopi Goldberg

Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 2 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6

Youth Activity: Participants will discover that sharing and trust are important parts of philanthropic action. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

“The point is not to pay back kindness but to pass it on.” ~Julia Alvaraz

Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 3 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

Youth Activity: Participants create a collage depicting philanthropic traits and actions. This collage serves as a visual definition of philanthropy. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

“The future depends entirely on what each of us does every day.” ~Gloria Steinem

 

Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 4 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6

Youth Activity: Participants will become comfortable saying the word philanthropy. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

"Some people give time, some money, some their skills and connections, some literally give their life's blood. But everyone has something to give..” ~Barbara Bush

Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 5 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6

Youth Activity: Participants will know the definition of philanthropy, and be able to recognize philanthropic traits and actions. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

“Say it again! Say it loud! Philanthropy makes me proud!” ~ Janet Wakefield

Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 6 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6
Youth Activity: This energizer activity helps youth recognize the word philanthropy and gain comfort pronouncing it through fun and active participation.
Unit: 
Roots of Philanthropy (Elementary)
Lesson 7 of 7
Grades: 
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

Youth Activity: Participants discover how their time can equal dollars to help their community. See the handout for supplemental faith-based discussion questions.

“My call tonight is for every American to commit at least two years, or 4,000 hours, over the rest of your lifetime to the service of your neighbors and your nation.” ~President George W. Bush, 2003 State of the Union Address