Raising the next generation of philanthropists means we have to do more than simply teach them to give—we have to impart our value system for responsible resource management. Our kids should learn a healthy respect for the power of money—to do good or bad. In our increasingly materialistic and narcissistic society, it has become especially important to teach philanthropy and civic responsibility.

Experts believe that consumerism is more prevalent than ever before. “Commercialism has never permeated society like this before,” says psychologist Susan Linn, co-founder of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children are exposed to 40,000 ads every year. For young children who lack the ability to distinguish between program content and advertising, these commercials heavily influence the early development of their consumer ideals. Just take your six-year-old grocery shopping with you next time—does he ask for the plain cereal box or the one featuring his favorite cartoon character?  More

When you roll towards Columbia on southbound I-77 you might notice the funny billboard in the Blythewood area featuring a tiger with a big “#1” foam finger on his paw. With ‘Best Of’ accolades from nearly every local publication, including one from Charlotte Parent, and regular honors from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, it’s not surprising that Riverbanks Zoo is the state’s number one attraction. Lucky for you, Talk About Giving is giving away four tickets to the Zoo this Family Fun Friday! Just visit our Facebook page and click the Family Fun Friday tab on the left for the Question of the Week. Respond for a chance to win!

Visitors come from all over to enjoy the more than 2,000 animals, natural habitat exhibits and entertaining and educational opportunities offered by our nationally ranked Zoo and Botanical Garden. And not only is Riverbanks a favorite place for your family to see the animals, the Zoo is actively involved in a wide array of conservation and care efforts here regionally and internationally. So much goes on behind the scenes, and there are opportunities for us and our children to learn and get involved. More

People who don’t live in Columbia are always amazed to learn about all the great activities the Midlands offers. And, we can tell you that many states do not have anything like the South Carolina State Museum. What child doesn’t look forward to a field trip to the museum? School groups come from all over the state to enjoy its offerings. And what family isn’t excited to spend a day together there? What a great weekend outing!

Through innovative partnerships, comprehensive collections (everything and more than you can hope to learn in third grade S.C history), and stimulating exhibits (have you SEEN Animal Grossology!?) and programs (on Saturday, May 14^th there’s a great lecture on The Mystery of the H.L. Hunley), The S.C. State Museum provides educational environments that entertain, insppire imagination and creativity, and enrich the lives of its visitors. Did you know that it was voted one of the three top museums by Southeastern readers of Southern Living magazine, along with the High Museum in Atlanta and the Smithsonian Institution? Impressive. And it’s right in our backyard. More

We’re all working hard to raise well-adjusted, well-behaved and well-mannered kids that share, play fair and respect others. A lot of the time we feel like we’re on the right track … but everyone has those moments where we question our efforts. The Shop Tart describes one perfectly – and chances are you can recollect a similar moment in your household. How nice to know we’re not alone.

Similarly, like our friend the Shop Tart who has all the best advice about where to find what and what’s going on in town, most of us enjoy nice things, good food and fun. We want our children to have the best – a solid education, inviting home, fun toys and cute clothes. And there’s nothing wrong with that. But we also want our children, like Matthew and McKenzie featured below, to appreciate what they have and recognize what’s most important in life.

Talk About Giving was designed to support families that value philanthropy and wish to instill the spirit of giving in their children. As part of our mission, there are two groups that are always on our mind: 1) Midlands families; and 2) the numerous organizations that enrich our community and make the Columbia area such a wonderful place to live. Here, you will find great education and entertainment; a strong vision for ongoing beautification, recreation and opportunity; support in raising healthy families; and services to help us all exceed our potential and assist those in need.

 In celebration of the families and organizations that make our community exceptional, Talk About Giving is kicking off Family Fun Friday! We’ve partnered with like-minded organizations in the Midlands to give away a fun family activity every week!

It’s easy to participate. All you have to do is LIKE Talk About Giving’s Facebook page. Those who follow the page and respond to the weekly giveaway question will be eligible to win prizes that the whole family can enjoy including tickets to Riverbanks Zoo, EdVenture, S.C. State Museum, restaurant gift certificates and other activities. We’ll select a winner each Friday, so be sure to check your news feed and comment to enter!

Good luck! We look forward to providing families with opportunities to spend time with each other and learn about and enjoy the numerous community organizations and activities that make the Midlands famously hot!