Young people read about the talents and interests of people who took action for the common good during the Civil War and Reconstruction. The youth identify some of their own talents and match them to nonprofit organizations they can support today.

Students identify needs in the school and community and have a discussion about the advantages and disadvantages of keeping the areas of focus for their foundation open or defined to a narrow focus (e.g., addressing environment or poverty). The advantage of an open foundation is the...

This lesson illustrates the value of art and artists to a community and shows that art is maintained through philanthropy.

Analyze quotes by Martin Luther King, Jr, about being loving and inclusive. Design posters to encourage action and diverse community building.  

Students learn about nutrition for healthy bodies and encourage others to make healthy choices. Students learn about healthy choices by playing a group game. In the end they learn that when everyone is healthy, we are all able to...

Students view primary documents to explore public policy on service. They make meaning of the government role and citizen responsibility in civic action. They make a personal plan of service based on their available time, talent, and treasure.

Youth Activity: Youth explore the meaning of "common good," which is part of the definition of philanthropy.

"A community is only as good as its most unhealthy part." - anonymous

The learners define philanthropy and relate it to environmental stewardship. They compare mission statements from environmental organizations and write their own personal mission statement. They self-select a group to work with to plan and implement an environmental service...