Sites for Promoting Philanthropy in Children
Kids often struggle with the idea of charitable giving. If they can't see concrete results, it's just too abstract for them. These websites are wonderful introductions to the idea of philanthropy, as well as support for studies in culture, geography, economics and more.
Kiva.org is a wonderful way to introduce kids to charitable giving, while also supporting learning about economics, culture, geography and more. Users at Kiva can grant loans as small as $25 to small businesspeople in developing countries. What makes Kiva extra-special is that you can browse the profiles of those requesting loans and choose one that inspires you. Once the loan is repaid, the money can be withdrawn or re-loaned to another small business.
* Please read the details at Kiva.org before signing up. Loans do not earn interest and occasionally go into default.More »
In the book, One Hen,the main character is given a small loan, which he uses to purchase a chicken. As he sells the eggs, he is able to buy more chickens to grow his business. He is then able to expand, hire employees, and positively impact his whole community.The corresponding website teaches young people about microfinance, but allows them to give as well. As children play games on the site, they earn beads. When these beads are donated, Opportunity International loans money to an African entrepreneur to help with their business.
This lovely site has some beautiful music and teaches young people about culture, entrepreneurial spirit and the difference one person can make in a community.More »
Heifer International allows you to choose a specific gift (usually one or more animals) to donate to a community in need. The website describes different donation options and the positive impact those donations would have on a family or community. This can open up dialogue about agriculture, community, geography and more.
* It's important to note that a donation to Heifer International doesn't guarantee that they will provide a specific animal as they have to make appropriate decisions about what is most needed at the time. Still, it's great for kids to have a vision of what they are donating and how it might be used.More »
Kiva.org
Kiva.org is a wonderful way to introduce kids to charitable giving, while also supporting learning about economics, culture, geography and more. Users at Kiva can grant loans as small as $25 to small businesspeople in developing countries. What makes Kiva extra-special is that you can browse the profiles of those requesting loans and choose one that inspires you. Once the loan is repaid, the money can be withdrawn or re-loaned to another small business.
* Please read the details at Kiva.org before signing up. Loans do not earn interest and occasionally go into default.More »
One Hen
In the book, One Hen,the main character is given a small loan, which he uses to purchase a chicken. As he sells the eggs, he is able to buy more chickens to grow his business. He is then able to expand, hire employees, and positively impact his whole community.The corresponding website teaches young people about microfinance, but allows them to give as well. As children play games on the site, they earn beads. When these beads are donated, Opportunity International loans money to an African entrepreneur to help with their business.
This lovely site has some beautiful music and teaches young people about culture, entrepreneurial spirit and the difference one person can make in a community.More »
Heifer International
Heifer International allows you to choose a specific gift (usually one or more animals) to donate to a community in need. The website describes different donation options and the positive impact those donations would have on a family or community. This can open up dialogue about agriculture, community, geography and more.
* It's important to note that a donation to Heifer International doesn't guarantee that they will provide a specific animal as they have to make appropriate decisions about what is most needed at the time. Still, it's great for kids to have a vision of what they are donating and how it might be used.More »
