Students research and present on the effectiveness of a modern environmental nonprofit of their choosing. They reflect on their personal commitment to addressing environmental issues financially or with action.
Jane Addams is used as a model to demonstrate a philanthropist in action, improving many situations, not only in the city of Chicago, but also at state, national and international levels.
To understand the workings of foundations in improving the common good.
Learners will identify and tell the stories of historical figures who acted for and affected the common good, and review personal qualities that these historical figures possessed.
Learners will understand the meaning of the term "philanthropy" and the qualities that philanthropists share, especially good character and personal virtue.
Learners will analyze the new philanthropists, who they are, what they give, who they give to, their personal qualities, and how they hold people and organizations accountable for their philanthropic efforts.
Learners will match a major social problem with a foundation that is trying to help solve the problem and research its work.
Students will begin to ponder the essential questions regarding philanthropy, which they will consider throughout the unit. They will formulate answers, and be familiar with the terms associated with philanthropy and democracy.
Students compare the actions of early leaders to their own responsibility to be civically responsible. This discussion and writing activity helps students clarify the citizen's role in philanthropy as voluntary action for common good.