Study shows greater success for children whose parents inspire to volunteer

By Miriam Ostermann, Associate Editor

A recent national survey revealed that nearly 90 per cent of Canadian parents believe in inspiring their children to volunteer and give back to charities, and it’s projected they will dig deep into their pockets and donate $5 billion this holiday season.
The survey was conducted by Imagine Canada, which is a national umbrella organization that represents the country’s charities. Its findings reveal that 79 per cent of parents deem it essential to give back during the holidays and that it serves as a vital experience for their children and teenagers. The online study also showed that 76 per cent said they were committed to teaching their children about charitable giving.
Imagine Canada projected that $5 billion would be spent at the end of the 2017 year, bringing the annual total up to a substantial $13 billion donated to non-profit charities, as they expected 60 per cent of all Canadians to contribute.
On top of that, eight out of 10 parents said they believe giving back and getting involved in charities and their communities will produce happy and caring adults.
“The greatest gift we can give our children is generosity itself,” said Bruce MacDonald, president and CEO of Imagine Canada. “Imagine a future where the next generation stands up in vast numbers to support charities. Ours would be a society in which everyone was valued and no one was left behind. In very real ways, our future quality of life depends on raising children who care and give back.”
The findings of the nationwide study reflect observations in Calgary. The Calgary Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Eva Friesen said she’s noticed an increase in children participating in their communities and initiatives, especially during the holidays. Although she recognizes parents’ involvement, she also credited school programs and curriculums that promote compassion and helping others – programs she said were not readily available or promoted when she was a child in school.
“We’re certainly noticing it, and I think it’s a factor of millennials; younger people are much more interested in community, serving, community volunteering and donating,” said Friesen. “Kids are getting very involved in helping. But this survey would say that people are promoting it. They say it’s important and they’re teaching their kids and involving their kids, and we see that in the Calgary Foundation as well.”
Friesen added their organization sees efforts throughout the year; however, it’s more dominant at Christmas time. In fact, according to the study, 36 per cent of families have called a family meeting to discuss charitable giving as part of the family’s holiday activities. While she added many families are teaching their kids about giving over receiving, many have trouble knowing where to turn to get started. Therefore, the Calgary Foundation posted a free Family Philanthropy Guide on their website to get the conversation started and guide families through the processes. To check out the website visit calgaryfoundation.org.