Youth At Down Syndrome Association Have Powerful Experience Through Magnified Giving

December 7, 2021 | Written by Lindsey Barta

Each year, we strive to make philanthropy education accessible to more youth, and we are especially passionate about reaching youth for whom giving and service is a truly empowering and transformational experience. For the first time this year, we were delighted to host a Magnified Giving program with students engaged in programming at Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati. Recently, the students completed the program and held presentations to give away their $1,000 grant, and smiles were on the faces of all who were present! Students created tri-fold posters to share what they learned and how they can give of their time, talent, and treasure in support of their chosen nonprofit.

Four youth with Down Syndrome worked one-on-one with a volunteer to learn about philanthropy, explore social causes, and advocate for a nonprofit organization. One of these volunteers, Carol, described how empowering this process was: “People with Down Syndrome frequently work with volunteers who help them. It was outstanding to see these students become empowered to be in the position to help others by taking on the role of a philanthropist. As the parent of an adult daughter with Down Syndrome, it has always been important to me that she volunteer and think about how she can help others. This Magnified Giving program is a great way to make that happen.”

One participant, Will, shared a presentation about A Brush of Hope, the nonprofit that the group ultimately chose as the recipient of their $1,000 grant. Will’s teacher at Clark Montessori High School shared that his class recognized Will for his efforts and said, “He was beaming! He told the class all about Magnified Giving.” Carol agreed that the opportunity gave the students great pride. She said, “Some of the students were aware that their classmates at their schools were involved with Magnified Giving. I think this group became very proud that they were also able to participate and ultimately help others.”

We are so proud of these students for stepping out of their comfort zone and learning how to be philanthropists! At Magnified Giving, we believe that individuals of every age, ability, socioeconomic status, and gifting can be philanthropists, and these students affirm that! Carol told us, “I was thrilled to see how Magnified Giving has reached a group that isn’t always included in these sorts of activities.” Us too! We are excited to continue expanding our programming to more groups like this, because we believe that philanthropy education is valuable for everyone.