National Giving Hearts Day: Teaching Kids About Generosity & Kindness

 A celebration that offers one of the best opportunities to give back - longest running giving day in the United States.

National Giving Hearts Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of February, is a special day dedicated to fostering generosity and kindness within communities. This day encourages individuals to give back, whether through acts of kindness, charitable donations, or simply by spreading positivity. As teachers, we play a vital role in shaping young minds and teaching students the value of compassion and giving.

In a single 24-hour period, over $29 million was raised for charities throughout the upper Midwest in 2024. $3 million more was raised than the previous year setting a new record. Organizations like soup kitchens, medical foundations, STEM programs, arts programs, and so many more raise money to advance their missions.

Here's how you can educate kids about Giving Hearts Day and inspire them to make a difference in their own lives and communities.

What is Giving Hearts Day?

Giving Hearts Day began as an initiative to promote philanthropy and support charitable organizations. It's a time when people come together to make donations, volunteer, and perform acts of kindness to help others in need. While initially focused on monetary contributions, Giving Hearts Day also celebrates the non-monetary ways we can give to one another - through our time, talents, and kindness.

History of National Giving Hearts Day

Giving Hearts Day was founded in 2008 as an initiative by the Dakota Medical Foundation (DMF), Impact Foundation, and the Alex Stern Family Foundation in Fargo North Dakota. Its goal was to create a platform for people to support, build awareness, and promote the charities, nonprofit organizations, and causes they love. From just under $500,000 raised in its first year to more than $19 million raised in 2020, it has become a day of exceptional impact.

Over the years, it has helped raise millions of dollars for hundreds of charities, making a significant impact on the organizations and the communities they serve.

Fargo, North Dakota-based Impact Foundation submitted National Giving Hearts Day in 2019 to celebrate the 24-hour giving events for charities across North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota.

Key Milestones in its History Include:

• 2008: The first Giving Hearts Day launched with 40 participating charities, making the beginning of what would become an enduring tradition.
• Digital Giving: As technology advanced, Giving Hearts Day adopted online donation platforms, making it easier for individuals to contribute from anywhere and helping nonprofits expand their reach.
• Community Engagement: Through the years, the initiative has emphasized not only financial contributions but also acts of kindness, volunteering, and fostering a culture of generosity.

Each year, Giving Hearts Day contributes to grow, uniting individuals, businesses, and nonprofits in a shared mission to strengthen their communities. It's success demonstrates the power of collective giving and the enduring impact of generosity.

Why Teach Kids About Giving Hearts Day?

Teaching children about Giving Hearts Day helps instill values of empathy, community involvement, and gratitude. By learning about the importance of helping others, students develop a sense of social responsibility and realize the impact of their actions on the world around them. It's an opportunity to encourage teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving as they brainstorm ways to give back.

Activities to Celebrate Giving Hearts Day in the Classroom

1. Kindness Journals

Have students create a "Kindness Journal" where they record acts of kindness they perform or witness throughout the day. Encourage them to set personal goals for spreading kindness, such as helping a classmate, sharing a compliment, or lending a hand at home.

2. Class Giving Project

Organize a class project focused on giving. Examples include:

• Collecting canned goods or clothes for a local shelter.
• Creating cards for nursing home residents or hospital patients.
• Making care packages for community helpers, such as firefighters or teachers.

3. Storytelling and Discussions

Read books or share stories about generosity and kindness. Books like "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" by Carol McCloud or "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein are excellent choices. Afterward, discuss the themes with students and ask how they can apply the lessons in their lives.

4. Random Acts of Kindness Challenge

Create a classroom challenge where students complete as many acts of kindness as they can in a day or week. Recognize and celebrate their efforts as a group, emphasizing that even small acts make a big difference.

5. Learn About Local Charities

Introduce students to local organizations that help the community, such as food banks, animal shelters, or hospitals. You can invite a guest speaker from a charity or show videos that highlight their work. Discuss how these organizations make a difference and how students can support them.

6. Art for a Cause

Have students design posters or art projects that promote kindness and giving. Display these around the school to spread the Giving Hearts Day Message to others.

Key Messages to Teach Kids

• Giving comes in many forms: It's not just money; giving your time, sharing a smile, or helping a friend can make a big impact.
• Kindness is contagious: Small acts of kindness can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect.
• Everyone can give: No matter their age, students have the power to make a positive difference in their families, schools, and communities.

A Lasting Lesson in Generosity

By celebrating Giving Hearts Day, you're not only teaching kids about generosity but also planting the seeds of lifelong compassion. As students grow, they'll carry these lessons forward, becoming empathetic leaders and active participants in their communities.

Encourage your students to reflect on how their actions, no matter how small, can touch the lives of others. Together, let's inspire the next generation to have hearts full of kindness and hands ready to give.

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