Conducting research about activists from different cultures helps youth recognize Human Rights and the relationship to philanthropic values.

Explore the meaning of philanthropy through a Native American legend.

We learn about Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her leadership of the woman's suffrage movement. At the time it was hard for some people to see that women deserved equality or that change was possible, but her persistence and organization techniques helped raise awareness and involvement. 

Participants identify the attributes of a hero who is acting for the common good. Mother Teresa is a hero for her philanthropic work and character. 

This lesson may stand on its own as an introduction to the concept of philanthropy or lead into the unit exploring philanthropy of different geographic traditions. Participants listen to a read-aloud picture book that illustrates the value of giving gifts that are good for the giver and receiver. We expand thinking of potential gifts of time, talent, and treasure.  

Jackie Robinson is a baseball player whose perseverance and strength changed racist attitudes and laws. Participants reflect on Mr. Robinson's actions and make connections to personal actions and to the people they admire today. 

Participants identify and compare the different roles of the four sectors of the economy (government, business, nonprofit, and family). They identify which sector does what and observe how they approach differently the sometimes overlapping responsibilities. Participants describe the work of foundations and state the purpose of an organization's mission statement.

Participants discuss and analyze the solutions implemented by President Roosevelt during the Great Depression. The role that philanthropy played in helping to end the Great Depression will be central to the discussion.

Using primary source images and interviews, participants learn about life and economics during the Great Depression and how different sectors of society contributed to bringing the country out of this dark period.

Now familiar with how a community foundation serves the community, the learners form a Youth Advisory Committee and use parliamentary procedure to conduct business.