I’m happy to report that the boys each picked a charity for their donations.
Finley used the money from the “donate” slot on his piggy bank to buy two toys for children at the local domestic violence shelter. He picked out the two toys himself (LEGOs –surprise! — and the game, Operation) and paid for them in quarters. Then he happily put them in the toy collection box at our local YMCA.
Cooper’s school has been collecting money for victims of Hurricane Sandy, so when I mentioned that there might be people without homes or toys that we could help, he immediately latched on to the idea of helping people build homes. We first thought of donating to Habitat for Humanity, but I remembered YouthBuild. The group helps low-income youth ages 16-24 earn their GEDs and develop job skills through work on affordable housing projects. So, we matched Cooper’s money and made a donation to our local chapter.
Thanks to all of you who provided such wonderful suggestions for ways we could help this holiday season. Even though #GivingTuesday has passed, it’s not too late to work charity into your holiday plans.
Kirsten W. Larson 
Giving and generosity is such an important thing to learn during childhood. I love both Finley and Cooper’s choices.
Thanks Joanna. I found it interesting how much their ages and understanding correlated with their choices. The preschooler is all about toys. Ha, ha.
You’ve got some GOOD boys there!
We’re trying to develop some good young men. 🙂
Great choices fellas!
And dare I brag that Finley did not cry or throw a tantrum when he put the toys in the box.
What wonderful charities, and how thoughtful of your boys to donate. I’m sure they feel good about giving, and the recipients will be better off for their donations!
I’m not sure how good they feel about giving, yet, but we are hoping to teach them the habit, especially when we are so blessed.
Kirsten…this is what this holiday season is all about! I’m so proud of your boys…and you…for reaching out to others. What a wonderful way to encourage young ones to grow up to be caring adults. 🙂
We’re trying, Vivian. You are an inspiration.
That is so sweet, Kirsten! I am actually working on a blog post for tomorrow…I’d like to start an award (are regular people allowed to do that?) for bloggers who are doing an amazing job of uplifting and encouraging children, whether or not they are parents. I’ll be awarding the Positive Parental Participation Blogger Award to ten people…and you are definitely one of them. 🙂 I’ll send you a link when the post is live. 🙂
Awww. What a great boys you have, and what a neat opportunity.
Thanks Hannah!
Your boys made great choices Ms. Larson! 🙂
Thanks Erik. 🙂
🙂
Here’s the link to the post, Kirsten: http://viviankirkfield.wordpress.com/2012/12/06/parenting-blog-award-the-positive-parental-participation-blog-award/
You are an amazing person and mom!