Concept of the Month: Doing My Part

This month, Young Americans Bank wants to help you learn about giving back!  

There’s a big word, philanthropy, that means wanting to help other people.  You can be a philanthropist, someone who helps other people, by donating your time, talent, or treasure!  Below are some ideas to help you think about how YOU can make your community a better place.

Time 

It takes just a moment to make someone’s day, change a life, or change the world. Put a bunch of those moments together and volunteer for a cause you believe in! Read a book to a blind person, an elderly person or another child. Pull your elderly neighbor’s weeds. Take your disabled neighbor’s paper and mail up to their door. There are all sorts of things you can do to make the world around you a better place with just a little bit of your time. 

Talent 

What do you do well that you can share with your community? Are you a fabulous writer? Tutor another classmate or start or join a poetry club designed to help youth express themselves. Are you a sports star? Offer your skills to help younger athletes. Wonderful musician? A natural artist? Tutors don’t have to be old to help others with their skills. You’re great at something, share it with the world! 

Treasure 

Do you have some extra change lying around? Or have you been saving your money for something very important to you? You do not have to give hundreds, thousands or even millions to make a difference. Every bit makes a difference to someone. Find a cause that you believe in and have researched to make sure they’re going to use your money wisely. And feel proud about your donation. No matter how much it is, you are making a difference! 

Ready to be a philanthropist for yourself?  Use this Doing My Part worksheet to help you get started!