In a class called Philanthropy 101 at Atlanta's private Westminster School, Davis spent four weeks absorbing the history of philanthropy and visiting nonprofit groups to understand the needs within his community. Similar courses are cropping up across the country for children as young as 4. Extensive information and publications list to help families create and maintain family foundations or funds at community foundations. An initiative of the Points of Light Foundation, it links families, neighborhoods, organizations and corporations in volunteer activities. The Web site features dozens of ideas for family projects, with new ones added each month.
Membership is free, but parents can also obtain information by mail for a small fee.
A companion project to FamilyCares, this nonprofit organization has sparked the creation of more than 400 clubs through which children perform community service projects. The site provides help in organizing a club and offers project ideas and other support. In partnership with the Points of Light Foundation and Youth Service America, Prudential teaches young people leadership skills they can apply to community problem-solving. It also highlights projects volunteers are doing. Helps families find volunteer vacation trips on public lands such as national and state parks and forests.