At the community foundation, we are honored to work with many families across multiple generations. Quite frequently, parents and grandparents share with us their hopes of passing along to the next generation more than just financial assets. They want to pass along values, encourage generosity, and foster a lifelong commitment to community.
In many of these conversations, parents and grandparents ask how they can get teens involved. “The teenage years can be tricky,” they tell us. “But we also know this is an important time to begin conversations about philanthropy.” And that’s certainly true! Teens are old enough to understand community challenges, form opinions about issues they care about, and make thoughtful decisions about how they want to help.
For parents, it’s likely worth exploring the research behind the benefits of getting teens involved in the community. In particular, a landmark study published eight years ago (and still relevant) in the Journal of Adolescence found that altruistic behaviors—such as learning about and assisting strangers—not only appeal to adolescents, but actively raise their self-esteem and feelings of self-worth.
No matter how compelling the strategy may be, however, getting teens involved is often easier said than done. The team at the community foundation is happy to help. Here are ten suggestions for simple ways to start the process.
- Ask what they care about
Many adults begin by talking about charities they support. Instead, start by asking your teen what issues matter to them. They may be passionate about animals, the environment, education, healthcare, mental health, or helping neighbors in need. Listening first can create a stronger foundation for future conversations and ultimately deeper community engagement.
- Volunteer together
Giving involves more than writing checks. Spending even just an hour volunteering as a family can help teens see firsthand how nonprofit organizations serve the community and why charitable support matters.
- Let them help make giving decisions
If your family uses a donor-advised fund at the community foundation, consider inviting teens to recommend a portion of the annual grants to nonprofit organizations they believe in. Even small decisions can help them gain confidence and feel invested in the family’s philanthropy. Some families even choose to establish a donor-advised fund for a child or grandchild when they reach adulthood, using cash or appreciated assets to help launch a lifetime of charitable giving.
- Visit local nonprofits
Many nonprofit organizations welcome visitors and offer tours or informational meetings. Seeing an organization’s work in action often leaves a lasting impression and helps young people understand the impact of charitable giving. Again, this does not need to take a lot of time. Even a 20-minute visit can be eye-opening. The community foundation team is happy to offer suggestions and make connections.
- Encourage teens to research charities
Ask your teen to identify a cause they care about and jump online to learn more about organizations addressing that issue. This can help develop critical thinking skills and introduce concepts such as nonprofit missions, effectiveness, and community impact. Feel free to ask the community foundation team to suggest websites, books, and other educational resources if your teen wants to learn more.
- Talk about family values
Charitable giving often reflects deeply held beliefs and priorities. Sharing stories about why your family supports certain causes can help teens understand that philanthropy is about more than money—it’s about making a difference. For example, if your family has supported a particular nonprofit for many years because of a personal connection, take the time to explain to your teen the history and original connection.
- Help them give their own money
Whether it is a portion of an allowance, earnings from a summer job, or birthday money, encouraging teens to make their own charitable gifts can be a powerful learning experience. It always feels more “real” to spend your own money, and charitable giving is no exception.
- Introduce teens to community leaders
This suggestion surprises many parents and grandparents who wish they would have thought of it sooner! Think of all the people you know who are making a difference every day in the community, whether working at a nonprofit, serving in a civic leadership position, or leading philanthropy efforts for a business. These conversations can inspire teens by showing them how individuals—real people—can create meaningful change.
- Invite teens to community foundation events
Many events hosted by the community foundation may be well-suited for your teen to attend, especially when our team is presenting information about community needs or celebrating a community milestone. The next time you plan to attend a community foundation event, consider asking our team whether it might be appropriate to bring a teenage child or grandchild. We are also happy to suggest upcoming events that may be especially engaging for young people.
- Focus on progress, not perfection
To state the obvious, there is no single right way to raise charitable children and grandchildren! The goal is not to create experts overnight. Instead, focus on creating opportunities for curiosity, learning, and participation. Small—even very small—experiences can help teens build lifelong habits of generosity and civic engagement.
One of the greatest gifts you can give the next generation is an understanding that they have the power to make a difference. The community foundation would be delighted to help!