Category Archives: Organizatons

The Day My 3-Year-Old Did Multiplication (By Giving to Others)


Although that may sound impressive, it’s not exactly what you would think. Perhaps she has learned something even better, though. She used giving to find out what multiplication looks and feels like in real life, and these tangible experiences for young children are a powerful way to learn and reinforce new concepts (like multiplication). When our family was introduced to CommuniGift as her third birthday approached, I already sensed that it was an opportunity to grow the impact of our family giving, but I didn’t anticipate the added bonus of our daughter learning multiplication, too.

CommuniGift was founded upon the belief that all children, no matter their circumstance, deserves to feel special on their birthday. For some families, the opportunity to throw a birthday party, or even purchase a gift for their child is out of reach. Meanwhile, as we selected a play place, ordered food, and chose the cake, the spirit behind CommuniGift reminded me that this was plenty. Simone had more than enough to make her feel special on her birthday.

We discovered that through CommuniGift’s interface, rather than having our guests bring presents to her party, we could invite them to donate gifts to her virtual “birthday buddy” instead. (more…)

Walking the Walk: Our Summer of Service

IMG_1953We’ve done our fair share of putting our feet up this summer. It’s time to walk the walk. I’ve been talking the talk on Philanthroparent about ways families can serve this summer, and now it’s time to put some things into action for ourselves. This will be our first attempt at creating PhilanthroTot summer service opportunities. I’m excited to share what we’ll be up to in the next few months!

When considering ways to get out and give this summer, my first criteria was something toddler friendly. My 20-month-old’s favorite summer pastime seems to be wandering. I can’t guarantee the quality of my effectiveness at any of these events. I’m going to try to be of the mind frame that simply being present is still a valid way to support a cause. (more…)

Celebrate World Oceans Day, June 8th

Beach Heart - Version 2World Oceans Day takes place every year on June 8th, and my daughter and I are celebrating for the first time this year by making a plastic fish collage! You might also consider celebrating if … 1) You have been to the ocean or the beach and enjoyed it. 2) You have taken your child out on the ocean or to the beach and they enjoyed it. 3) You plan on taking your child out on the ocean or to the beach because your family will probably enjoy it.

Needless to say, our oceans and beaches are likely to become a lasting memory for your child. So, as a Philanthroparent, you might want to consider helping them find ways to appreciate these memories. And since you’re raising a socially and environmentally conscious kid, you might also realize that you need to introduce them to the fact that humanity’s actions are impacting our oceans in a multitude of ways.

Even if you don’t live in or near a coastal community, there are still ways to get involved. The World Oceans Day website has a multitude of ideas for honoring our oceans. You’ll discover surprising (and sometimes alarming) facts that can motivate your family into action. You can take a “Selfie for the Sea”, browse their project ideas, or take a pledge to do something to reduce your impact on our oceans. (more…)

Book Drives: Kid Tested, Philanthroparent Approved

This past weekend marked the first hands-on service activity I’ve participated in since parenthood. For years I’ve wanted to take part in Big Sunday Weekend- a compilation of community service activities orchestrated over one weekend in May. Even though I’d have a toddler in tow, I was determined to make it happen.  I couldn’t be certain how effective I would be if I brought my daughter, yet I was ready to start volunteer experiences alongside her. I scanned the event listings, and discovered a Book Drive for a local Los Angeles organization, BookEnds … This could work. Armed with plenty of reading material and my carrier, we set out to sort donated books that would reach needy schools, youth centers, literacy programs and educational organizations.

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