In an effort to strengthen the notion that individual voluntary action can have a significant impact, students will create books where one key historical figure's actions turn from philanthropic to selfish. They will imagine what the world would be like in the absence of great deeds of generosity and character. The students illustrate with their imagination and words the impact of character and philanthropy to make a difference.

 Students read about Rosa Parks and evaluate how her protest of an unjust and unfair situation was philanthropic in nature. Students analyze violent situations and propose nonviolent solutions. They learn that there are 198 methods of non-violent protests that can be used to fight injustice.

The learners analyze many variations of the Golden Rule and relate it to the concept of philanthropy and the words of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Lack of awareness plays a role in perpetuating racism and prejudice. Learners identify ways they can advocate for tolerance, justice, and kindness.

Learners cite philanthropic historical events on a timeline. They focus on events in which the nonprofit sector was used to make positive changes in society.

After researching the life and work of a chosen philanthropist from history, the learner takes on the role of that philanthropist in writing a letter back to the learner. In this letter, the philanthropist shares their motivations and feelings about their work, and compares and contrasts their work with the philanthropic work of the learner. 

Jane Addams is a model philanthropist in action, improving many situations through volunteerism and advocacy, not only in the city of Chicago, but also at state, national and international levels.

In this second lesson about Jane Addams, we learn about the impact of her philanthropic work and connect it to the needs of our communities today. Young people discuss voluntary actions they can take inspired by Jane Addams.