HEALTHY HABITS
Raising Socially Responsible Kids PARENTING A lifetime of philanthropy begins in childhood
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“Parents with a family foundation or who are considering making a donation of any size can help their kids get into philanthropy by involving them in the process,” Loker says. “Let them know where the money is going and how it could help. Allow kids to ask questions and see their parents being smart about donating. Looking at a cause from a business perspective and becoming invested themselves are also great ways to foster a child’s entrepreneurial spirit.” It also helps for families to think big. For instance, Rady Children’s, a nonprofit hospital, serves 92% of San Diego kids and leverages philanthropy to plan special events, visits from special guests and outings for patients, many of whom stay for long periods of time and spend birthdays and holidays in hospital beds. Donating, volunteering or attending one of the Hospital’s community happenings can have a positive impact locally in a very real way, though fundraising is generally the most effective. Donors can direct funds toward areas such as research, mental health services, Child Life Services (see next page for more info) or purchasing toys for patients. “The fact that you can fundraise for the
t’s our job as parents to raise good humans. Social responsibility is a big concept, but it’s really not that complicated. It just means acting in a way that leaves a positive impact or benefits the greater good. That could be anything from championing causes you care about, cleaning up in the community or looking out for those less fortunate, to helping ensure that all San Diego kids have access to quality health care. And with your guidance, your little ones will be well on their way in no time. Alexandra Loker, vice president of philanthropy, corporate and community development at Rady Children’s, says starting early is key to inspiring the next generation of do-gooders, who make giving back a lifelong ambition and inspire others to do the same.
“Expose children to different types of causes and encourage them to set aside a portion of their allowance or gift money to donate—or let them come up with their own way to help,” she says. Letting children come up with their own ideas about how to make a difference
whole at Rady Children’s or a specific area that you care about gives families a great deal of ability to make an impact where they want,” Loker says.
will prepare them long-term toward developing a business sense and social responsibility, short-term toward seeing an immediate positive in what they’re doing.
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