Giving Starts Here

Giving Starts Here

In 2007, The Centre on Philanthropy created the ‘Giving Starts Here’ programme (sponsored by Catlin Insurance).  The goals of this programme are to:

• Engage youth in philanthropy.
• Show youth as examples of the philanthropic spirit.
• Provide resources for schools to promote giving in their school.

Programme Highlights:

Youth Philanthropist of the Year Award:  At The Centre’s biennial pre-conference dinner, we award a $2500 scholarship to a young person who are dedicated to giving back to the community.

2009 Nominees:

  • Mike Mello and Mike Witkowski:  long-serving volunteers with KBB
  • Caitlin O’Doherty:  created an eco-club for students across the island
  • Ri-Ann Pully: directed her own film on youth violence
  • Shara Trott: organized two lock-ins where young girls can talk and learn about key issues facing young people
  • Ashjuanna Thomas: promotes self-esteem among girls through the Girls Club at her

The judges had such a tough time selecting a winner that they didn’t select a winner – they selected two! Caitlin O’Doherty and Shara Trott were both named Youth Philanthropists of the Year 2009 and awarded scholarships in the amount of $2,500. The award is sponsored by Karitane Trust.

2007 Winner:  Neville

Giving Starts Here Television Programme:  In October 2007, this half hour special aired on VSB Television.  The programme featured young people from all walks of life discussing how they find ways to give back.

School Resource Boxes and Class Presentation:  From September 2008 – June 2009, The Centre Philanthropy staff and volunteers delivered school resource boxes to every primary and middle school on the island.  The boxes include DVDS, worksheets, class lessons, games, and books – all centered on the theme of giving back.  Schools were able to have in-class presentations to support the teachers, and one school in particular, Northlands Primary, jumped at the opportunity.  Every class at this primary school had a presentation.

The Giving Game:  The Giving Game, an initiative of US-based The League and Learning to Give, is a game to promote random acts of kindness.  The game features playing cards, each with a unique tracking code.  When an individual does a good deed for someone, they are encouraged to pass the card on.  Thus the recipient of the good deed then becomes the doer!  Schools on the island received Giving Game cards for their students in May and June 2008.

Anyone that is interested in learning more about this programme, or getting your school involved, please contact Danielle.