The graduations happening all around us create unexpected giving moments like the one I had a few years ago. Opening the mail, I was startled by the announcement with images of a young woman I only knew through her parents. I’d known about her since she was a little girl through dad updates. And that’s how I thought about her – a charming little girl. The young woman staring at me was grown-up and ready to take on college.
For several days, I debated how to congratulate and honor her as she started into adulthood. How could I convey that I’m proud of what she’s becoming?
How could I honor her sweet spirit and role model generosity that respects her interests?
Thinking about graduations takes me back to my own at John Tyler High School, a time filled with excitement about college and the key to my very first car. It wasn’t a new car, but it was mine.
I shed the cap and gown after the pomp and circumstance of graduation and headed out to join friends for my first night as a near-adult. Two blocks from home, I had my first flat tire.
So, I walked home to announce to my parents — yes, near tears — that I already had a flat tire. My dad sprang into action, still needed by his nearly grown-up daughter. With the tire changed, I returned to my big night with the first of many almost-adult lessons about unexpected events, navigating between independence and needing help.
I still remember some of the gifts I received from family and friends of my parents. One of my mother’s cousins sent a book of poems about life that I kept for many years. And there was a giant, orange beach towel that became a chewable comforter for the new puppy last year.
Today, Generation Z is stepping into the spotlight as graduates. Known for being digital natives and social media savvy, they are independent, entrepreneurial, and highly collaborative. More than any prior generation, Gen Z actively engages in volunteerism and philanthropy, often fundraising for causes they care about or championing the passions of their friends.
If you’re pondering a gift to a Gen Z graduate, consider honoring them with a donation to a cause they care about, plus something small they can use to prepare for whatever is next for them.
Tips for Deciding Where to Send the Honorarium
- Has the graduate volunteered at a nonprofit organization?
- Ask the graduate where they would give if they had $1,000 to donate.
- Check their social media page – TikTok, Instagram, etc. Are they posting about a particular issue? Identify an organization aligned with their passion.
- Have they actively fundraised for a project or an issue, and you can make a gift in their honor?
- What do they plan to study in college or hope to become? For instance, if he hopes to be a pediatrician someday, find a nonprofit that provides medical services to children.
- Does she talk about traveling to a foreign country to make a difference? Find a nonprofit working in that country.
Think about all the bits and pieces you know about the graduate and find somewhere to donate in their honor. Don’t worry if their dreams are idealistic.
This isn’t about finding the perfect gift.
Donate to a cause your graduate is passionate about now. For example, the announcement for my graduate shared her hope to become a pediatrician. So, I picked the St. Paul Children’s Clinic – recently renamed to Bethesda Pediatrics – to make a gift in her honor. I also sent along a Barnes & Noble gift card because I knew from her dad she liked to read.
How are you modeling generosity for the young people in your life? Honor their hopes and dreams with a gift to a nonprofit organization and trust them to find their best future. Not only does it say you care, but it also means that you trust in their dreams to make the world a better place.
Do you have philanthropy and nonprofit questions? Start a conversation with Dawn to find helpful suggestions and ideas.
