Children recognize an act of philanthropy in literature and discuss ways to make the world more beautiful with acts of philanthropy.

The identification of the services provided by for-profit, nonprofit and governmental organizations and the drawing of community map that not only identifies the various services provided by these community organizations but also maps areas of need in the community form the intent of this lesson.

The learners will be introduced to philanthropy and be able to generate examples of various ways the community is impacted, either by individuals, families or community organizations.

In response to reading The Lorax, participants identify what trees give to us and all sectors of society. In response, we identify our personal responsibility for caring for trees. 

Students read an African version of the Cinderella story so that they can compare versions and increase their sense of story.

Young people learn about the variety of ways citizens can become active participants in the community: political parties, interest groups, voting, and providing public service. 

Sometimes we let negative words of others or our own doubts stop us from doing what we know we can. Children reflect on the importance of positive words and actions to make a strong community.

Children reflect on Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream and how he used his words. They reflect on their own dreams for a better community.

Learners explore that government and non-profit organizations together help bring about breakthroughs in modern science and medicine. These contributions to the common good require the support of philanthropists, large and small.

Through a story in which a child inspires her neighborhood to improve a vacant lot, young people recognize that they can have a positive impact on others. They brainstorm a philanthropic project to benefit the school or larger community.