Charitable giving and volunteerism know no boundaries in regard to age, gender or social status. Even children can be great stewards for philanthropic efforts. In fact, according to a 2013 study from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, nine out of 10 children give money to charity.
Children often develop a charitable nature thanks to their parents, but some kids embrace charity all on their own. Many youngsters are most drawn to organizations that help children. As kids search for charities to work with, parents can keep that in mind and steer them toward these kid-friendly organizations.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America: This group began in 1860 to provide an alternative for boys who were roaming the streets. It originally was solely for boys, but expanded to include girls in 1990. Clubs are located across the United States, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and on American military bases around the world, providing various services and safe places for communities to gather.
KaBoom: Since 1995, this organization has helped build ice rinks, playgrounds, skate parks, athletic fields, and other recreational areas in low-income places throughout the United States. KaBoom also helps renovate and restore existing playgrounds.
Locks of Love: Children who lose their hair due to medical conditions may be hesitant to remove their head scarves or ball caps. Locks of Love provides hairpieces made from real hair to those in need, helping to restore kids’ self-confidence. Locks of Love supports children in the United States and Canada, and many children have even donated their hair to the cause.
Make-a-Wish Foundation: This is the largest wish-granting charitable group in the world. The foundation helps make dreams possible for children suffering from life-threatening medical conditions.
My Stuff Bags Foundation: Children who need to be removed from their homes or dangerous situations often arrive at foster homes and housing centers with few personal belongings. My Stuff Bags provides comfort items like clothes, stuffed animals and blankets to offer security and something these children can call their own.
These are just a few of the nearly one million registered charities that assist children and attract kids who want to lend other youngsters a helping hand.