Family philanthropy in the time of COVID-19

By Kathleen Wagner, senior philanthropic officer

For years we have created activities for families to teach their children and grandchildren about giving. COVID-19 is an economic and health crisis, and I’ve tried to focus on the silver lining, which is this time at home with my family. Shelter in place gives us time together that most of us lack when life is zooming along at its normal pace. Now that we are spending more time together than ever, why not make philanthropy a part of your activities or homeschooling? Even though she is young, I am trying to do this with own daughter. Here are some ideas:

1. If you have them, now is the time to put tools from us like the GivingCubes and PhilanthropyATL to good use. Sadly, I cannot mail you the GivingCubes right now, but you will find a PDF of PhilanthropyATL, with activity ideas broken out by grade level, here.
2. Write letters to essential staff, like doctors, nurses, medical technicians and grocery store workers to say thank you.
3. Put up a thank you sign on your sidewalk for your mail and delivery people.
4. Pick up litter when you go for walks.
5. Make masks to donate.
6. Donate blood if you are able to.
7. Make a big sign and go wave, dance or sing songs outside of senior living homes.
8. Send a letter to your grandparents (or to your grandkids!) saying you miss them and can’t wait to see them again.

Local resource Pebble Tossers has a special COVID-19 page with activities for kids to give back while at home that includes things like online tutoring, fostering pets and sending meals to the hospital. Check out their website for even more ideas.

I hope one of these ideas gives you a moment of philanthropy, even in this uncertain time.