In response to Martin Luther King, Jr.'s challenge, we explore what it means to be the best with the talents you have. The learners practice listening and responding with respect. Everyone has something to give, and this lesson helps us respect and celebrate the contributions we all can make to peaceful and inclusive communities. Students internalize "I matter in my communities."
Students explore the legacy of George H. W. Bush and how he has contributed to the common good as part of his lifelong commitment to service and through his Points of Light initiative. The students work in small groups to answer questions and present to the class for discussion. Each student writes a tribute to someone he or she knows who inspires civic action.
Students define and give examples of government philanthropy. They compare and contrast the four economic sectors. Small groups research a historical example of government philanthropy or civic action and write a persuasive piece to advocate for an issue related to government philanthropy.
Participants explore Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s thoughts about serving and taking action. They give examples of service and social action by one person that can change the world.
Youth read about Rosa Parks and evaluate how her protest of an unjust situation was philanthropic in nature. They learn that there are 198 methods of non-violent protests that can be used to fight injustice. The youth evaluate issues of inequity or injustice and propose nonviolent solutions.
The learners analyze many variations of the Golden Rule and relate it to the concept of serial reciprocity. They rewrite the golden rule to reflect respect for cultural differences.
This lesson examines one way a lack of self-awareness can play a role in perpetuating racism and prejudice. Learners identify ways they can advocate for justice and kindness.
Young people identify several advocacy strategies and draw conclusions as to their effectiveness. They research efforts in past advocacy campaigns to learn about people, styles, and effectiveness.
The purpose of this lesson is to teach learners how to give charity, to whom one should give charity, and to what extent/amount of charity is to be given. The lesson follows the examples and teachings of Maimonides (the Rambam) as well as interpretations and extensions of ancient Biblical laws.