Volunteers

Make Philanthropy Part of Your Family Traditions

Badgerland Girl Scouts

Brownie Girl Scouts volunteering at the River Food Pantry.

By Lori Astell, Director of Strategic Relationships

While the holiday season is filled with happiness and tradition, it is important we pause to be thankful for all we have. It’s so easy to get caught up in (and stressed-out over) buying gifts while losing sight of the people in our community, and our world, who are less fortunate.

I encourage you to consider making philanthropy a part of your holiday traditions. And there are lots of ways to do this. As a family you can gift your time, talents or dollars to help make the world a better place. Philanthropy brings family members together and encourages them to celebrate the support of others. Together, your family can make shared giving decisions such as determining where charitable gifts are given or deciding where to spend time volunteering.

Introducing children to philanthropy is an amazing way to demonstrate family values and attach meaning to money. By participating in good works alongside their families, children have the chance to develop empathy and compassion for others.

It is never too early to start teaching children about the importance of philanthropy and the holiday season is an ideal time to introduce the concept. In a recent survey, 89.4 percent of young adults cited their parents and 62.6 percent cited their grandparents as the people who influenced their learning about philanthropy. What better time than the holidays to start a new tradition and engage the entire family in giving back!

Consider Girl Scouts in Your Giving
Did you know each Girl Scout program is subsidized to make it affordable for every girl regardless of her family’s income? Additionally, financial assistance is available for membership, uniforms and camp. This year, consider giving the gift of Girl Scouting to those in need in your community.

Whether your family chooses to give time, talents or dollars, your gift is welcome. And giving to Girl Scouts is easy:

I challenge you to start a new family tradition this holiday season: Philanthropy! The gift your family gives will create opportunities for others all year long.

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