Like the birds and the bees and the 123s, philanthropy should be taught early and often.

By Katherine Falk , Janet R. Wakefield and Nancy Swanson

Look for ways to cultivate, support or recognize young people as philanthropists. Some ideas include:

Awards or recognition programs;

Mentoring programs, where adults serve as philanthropic role models;

Educational programs provided by the school or community;

Community-service initiatives, where a child can “try on” the role of philanthropist;

Funding for young people to serve as grantmakers; and

Involving children in fundraising initiatives.

Building involvement
Community Partnerships with Youth, an Indiana-based training and resource-development organization that promotes an increased youth voice in institutions, has two key programs to promote children’s involvement in philanthropy: The Word for Me is Philanthropy, geared toward young people ages 6 to 11; and Youth as Philanthropist, geared toward ages 12 to 20.