One child’s act of kindness
Families pass along values to their children and grandchildren in many ways. The most effective way is by example. A number of Interfaith supporters involve their children in making decisions about which organizations they choose to support. Some ask their kids to think about what matters to them, to research organizations that promote those values, and to bring suggestions to the family for giving consideration. Others give a certain amount to each child and allow them to make their own giving decisions. As those children become adults they carry on a family tradition of generosity.
Often this culture of giving carries across generations. Just look at 9-year-old Alexandra, who lives on the east coast and is the youngest granddaughter of longtime Interfaith supporters Dave and Jean Dovenberg. This past December, Alexandra sent us a note (see photo below) along with a $50 bill (1/3 of her total savings!) after hearing about the work of Interfaith Outreach from her grandparents.
Alexandra wrote: “Dear Interfaith Outreach, Thank you for Helping family’s get a nuff food to eat. Its not a lot of money but it could maybe make 1 meal for someone who needs it. My grandma said shed give 50$ too. So maybe you can give a toy with the meal? Merry christmas! Love Alexandra”
Dave Dovenberg has served on the Endowment Board, which promotes donations to Interfaith Outreach that will continue to give for generations to come. And here we see the Dovenberg’s example inspiring radical generosity from a young person who lives halfway across the country. Talk about hope for the next generation!
To explore ways to leave a legacy of compassion via the Endowment Fund, contact Adam Faitek at afaitek@iocp.org.