Students look at how they typically spend a free day and see what that same free day would look like when it is infused with philanthropy. Students plan a free day, substituting their usual routine with activities that give back. They discuss the benefits and opportunity cost involved in sacrificing personal time for the common good of their community.
Students see the importance of working together for the common good. They will create persuasive radio public service announcements about a philanthropic organization and its mission, and justify a personal choice about an organization they would like to support with time (volunteerism) or treasure.
Learners will develop a working knowledge of the vocabulary associated with philanthropy and awareness of the rich history of philanthropy in the United States.
This lesson focuses on motivations for giving. Learners explore the reasons why they might give treasure and what the impact of their giving might be upon the recipients of their giving.
Focus Question: How do our decisions about spending affect the common good?
Students explore the concept of stewardship of natural resources. They examine the effects of human intervention on ecosystems that include water resources.
The students examine the motivations and work of the painters Van Gogh and Gauguin who were driven by a need to benefit society through art. The students learn how artwork portrays ethnicity and then draw their own portraits to create a display of the diverse faces of the community.
Focus Question: How does an individual use personal interests and strengths to impact the common good?
Students research the work of historical figures who have influenced society through their philanthropic actions, especially working for the principles of justice, tolerance, and equality to promote civil society.
Students gain an awareness of local organizations that provide services to meet needs in the community. Students learn about the four sectors of the economy that provide help in different forms.
Focus Question: How might individuals and society address the issues of poverty, homelessness and hunger, and their underlying causes?
Students will recognize the value of giving to the community by looking at examples of the sacrifices and traditions of people of Native American culture.
Students will gain a basic understanding of philanthropic characteristics and apply them to their lives.