Ask an avid donor about their first memory of giving. You’ll often be told a nostalgic tale of throwing change into the giving basket as it was being passed around at church or perhaps filling their Coins for Kids canister at school. The lesson of giving time and treasure is handed down from generation to generation by parents, teachers, and other role models.
Consider this…
- Young people are more likely to give and volunteer if they have been exposed to giving at a young age.
- Giving is contagious! People who see someone else give are inspired to give.
- Just having conversations about giving can influence children’s interest in giving.
Modeling philanthropic behaviors and initiating conversations are great ways we can help assure the tradition of philanthropy is carried forward. Although how people give will inevitably and continuously evolve, the motivation behind the habit will be set.