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Inspiring Young Philanthropists

Even small gifts can create big change.

At Ithaca Children’s Garden, we believe philanthropy is for everyone — including children. Inspiring young people to give back helps foster empathy, generosity, and a sense of responsibility for their community and the world around them. By empowering kids to make a difference, we teach them that no contribution is too small and every act of kindness can have a big impact.

Whether it’s a simple idea or a creative project, there are many ways children can help support Ithaca Children’s Garden while having fun.

Brownie Troop 1201 gave a $150 gift to ICG which they earned during Girl Scout Cookie Sales in Spring 2019!

Here are some ideas to inspire young philanthropists in your life:

Host a Fundraising Event

From bake sales to talent shows, kids can host peer-to-peer fundraisers to rally their friends, family, and neighbors around a great cause. Encourage your child to pick an event that excites them, set a fundraising goal, and watch them lead the way in making a difference.

Create a Social Media Fundraiser

For older children and teens, a social media fundraiser is a simple and impactful way to share their passion for nature and raise money for Ithaca Children’s Garden. They can set up a personal fundraiser, explain why they care about ICG, and invite their social networks to join them in supporting outdoor play and learning.

Lemonade Stand

What’s sweeter than a glass of lemonade? Knowing that every dollar earned is helping to provide more children with the chance to explore and learn in nature! A classic lemonade stand is a perfect way for younger kids to turn their entrepreneurial spirit into meaningful impact. Display a sign on the stand saying that proceeds will benefit Ithaca Children’s Garden to spark more customers to buy or give more.

Trick-or-Treat for a Cause

During spooky season your child can trick or treat with a purpose. Encourage them to collect spare change from friends and neighbors while they’re out gathering candy. Every penny raised goes toward ensuring that more children have safe, welcoming outdoor spaces to explore.

Remember, it’s not about how much your child raises — it’s about taking action for a cause they care about. Their efforts could inspire others, creating a ripple effect of positive impact.

Yard Sale for the Garden

Cleaning out the garage or organizing old toys? Turn it into a philanthropic opportunity. Hosting a yard sale is an excellent way for kids to declutter while raising money for Ithaca Children’s Garden. They can contribute a portion or all of the proceeds to help support outdoor play and environmental education.

Inspiring the next generation of philanthropists isn’t just about raising money — it’s about nurturing a lifelong love of giving and showing children that their actions matter, no matter how big or small. At Ithaca Children’s Garden, we celebrate every young philanthropist who helps us create a brighter, greener future for all. No matter what route your young philanthropist takes, please share their fundraising story with us so we can celebrate their hard work and contribution! 

Get in Touch

Ithaca Children’s Garden is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. TIN: 52-2291247. EIN: 52-2291247 ICG’s mailing address is 1013 W. State St., Ithaca, NY 14850. (This is different than our Physical address: 121 Turtle Way, Ithaca NY 14850.)

Faces of Philanthropy

Why do you love & support The Garden?

Photographer Sarah Clapp asked this question to some of ICG’s incredible members, partners, and Garden enthusiasts, and the outcome was simply beautiful. The resulting exhibition, Photographing Philanthropy for the Love of Humanity, debuted at ICG’s 2017 Annual Celebration and perfectly encapsulates the role of the Garden in the lives and hearts of ICG devotees. See for yourself!