Teaching Philanthropy Through Fun Activities

 

For many families, giving is more than a financial decision—it’s a core value. But how do you ensure that value is passed down to the next generation in a meaningful way? Teaching kids about philanthropy isn’t just about generosity; it’s about instilling financial responsibility, decision-making skills, and a lifelong commitment to making a difference.

 

From small, everyday acts of kindness to structured giving plans, there are creative ways to engage children of all ages in charitable giving. In this edition of Wiser Way to Give, we explore how families can introduce philanthropy through hands-on activities, financial planning discussions, and legacy-building conversations that make giving a tradition, not just a transaction.

 

Engaging children in philanthropy helps build their understanding of money, empathy, and the broader impact of giving. Studies show that kids who are actively involved in charitable decisions:

✔ Develop stronger financial literacy and an understanding of responsible wealth management.
✔ Build a deeper connection to causes and see the direct impact of their contributions.
✔ Grow up with a heightened sense of social responsibility and generosity.

 

Just as financial habits are shaped early, so is a child’s approach to giving. Whether they’re saving a portion of their allowance to help others or researching nonprofits with their parents, every step matters.

 

 

💡 Kids learn best by doing! Keep it simple and interactive.
✔ Set up a Giving Jar alongside their savings jar, where they can collect money for a cause they choose.
✔ Take them shopping for food donations or toys for local charities, explaining why their help matters.
✔ Encourage them to participate in volunteer days with family and friends.
📌 Example: The Smith family hosts a “charity night” once a month where their kids take turns picking a local cause. They research together, make small donations, and talk about why that charity is important.

 

💡 As kids grow, so does their ability to think critically about giving.
✔ Let them help research charities and decide where a portion of the family's annual donations go.
✔ Set up a family philanthropy meeting once a year to discuss giving goals and impact.
✔ Introduce tax benefits by explaining how charitable donations work in financial planning.
📌 Example: The Garcia family gives their teenagers $250 each year to donate to a nonprofit of their choice. They present their selection at a family dinner and explain why the cause matters to them.

 

💡 For college students and young professionals, philanthropy can be tied to long-term financial goals.
✔ Open a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) where they can contribute and allocate donations over time.
✔ Explore impact investing—supporting businesses that align with their values while generating financial returns.
✔ Encourage them to consider charitable giving as part of estate planning.
📌 Example: A 23-year-old graduate sets up a small recurring donation through their employer’s charitable matching program, making giving a routine part of their budget.

 

 

When Sarah and James Thompson sold their family-owned business, they wanted to ensure their newfound wealth had a lasting impact. Instead of making one-time donations, they worked with their financial advisor to create a giving strategy that involved their two teenage daughters.

 

🔹 Ages 10-15: The girls volunteered at local shelters and started saving a portion of their allowance for charity.
🔹 Ages 16-21: The family allocated a portion of their charitable giving budget to be managed by their daughters, encouraging them to research and choose organizations to support.
🔹 Ages 22+: Each daughter was given a role in managing the family’s Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), helping them learn about financial planning and long-term philanthropy.

✅ Results: The Thompsons not only reduced their tax burden through structured giving but also ensured their family’s values were carried forward for generations. Their daughters now actively manage the family’s charitable contributions and have continued the tradition with their own children.

 

 

✔ Start early – The best habits begin young. Teaching kids about giving early helps instill lifelong generosity.
✔ Make it interactive – Let kids choose causes they’re passionate about to keep them engaged.
✔ Tie giving to financial lessons – Show them how donations fit into broader wealth management and tax planning.
✔ Work with professionals – A financial advisor can help structure a giving plan that benefits both your family and the charities you support.

 

 

💡 How Do You Teach Your Kids About Giving?
We’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences or reach out to discuss creative ways to align your family’s values with impactful giving. 🌟