At the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF), we are honored to support impact-driven families, often across multiple generations. Many parents and grandparents tell us they hope to pass along more than financial assets. They want to share values, encourage generosity, and help the next generation build a lifelong connection to community.
In these conversations, we often hear a familiar question: How can we get our next generation involved? The teenage years can be tricky, but we also know this is an important time to begin conversations about philanthropy. Teens are old enough to understand local challenges, form their own views about issues they care about, and make thoughtful choices about how they want to help.
It can also be helpful to consider what the research shows about the benefits of engaging teens in service and giving. A landmark study in the Journal of Adolescence found that altruistic behaviors, such as learning about and helping others, not only resonate with adolescents, but can also boost self-esteem and feelings of self-worth.
Even when the intention is strong, getting teens involved is often easier said than done. We’re here to help. Below are ten simple, practical ways to start – along with how the Orange County Community Foundation can support your family along the way.
1. Ask your teen what they care about
Many adults begin by talking about the organizations they already support. We encourage you to start by asking your teen what issues matter most to them. They may be passionate about animals, the environment, education, health, mental health, or helping neighbors in need. Listening first sets the stage for stronger conversations and can lead to deeper engagement over time.
2. Volunteer together
Giving involves more than writing checks. Spending even an hour volunteering as a family can help teens see firsthand how nonprofits show up for our community and why philanthropic support matters.
Families Come Together to Give Back
Giving is about more than making a donation. It’s about passing on values that last a lifetime. As featured in the Orange County Business Journal, see how OCCF’s Family Volunteer Program is helping families connect through service and philanthropy
Click here to read the complete feature.
3. Let them help make giving decisions
If your family has a donor-advised fund at the Orange County Community Foundation, consider inviting your teen to recommend a portion of your annual grants to local organizations they believe in. Even small decisions can build confidence and help them feel genuinely included in your family’s giving. Some families also choose to establish a donor-advised fund for a child or grandchild as they enter adulthood using cash or appreciated assets to help launch a lifetime of philanthropy.
4. Visit local nonprofits
Many Orange County nonprofits welcome visitors and can arrange tours or short informational meetings. Seeing an organization’s work up close often leaves a lasting impression and helps teens understand what philanthropy can make possible. This doesn’t need to take a lot of time—even a short visit can be eye-opening.
5. Encourage teens to research charities
Ask your teen to identify a cause they care about and do a little research together on organizations working in that area. This builds critical thinking and introduces ideas like mission, results, financial stewardship, and community impact. Resources like OC Nonprofit Central, OCCF’s fully searchable online database that provides detailed insights into the hundreds of Orange County nonprofit organizations, are a great place to start!
Keith Swayne, Founder of the OC Social Justice Fund, Daughter Anne Swayne Keir and Grand Daughter Linnaea
6. Talk about family values
Charitable giving is often an expression of deeply held beliefs and priorities. Sharing stories about why your family supports certain causes helps teens see that philanthropy is about more than money – it’s about making a difference in people’s lives. If your family has supported an organization for years because of a personal connection, take time to share that history and what it means to you.
7. Help them give their own money
Whether it’s a portion of an allowance, earnings from a summer job, or birthday money, encouraging teens to make their own charitable gifts can be a powerful learning experience. It feels more “real” to use your own money and philanthropy is no exception.
8. Introduce teens to community leaders
This suggestion often surprises families and many tell us they wish they had tried it sooner. Think of the people you know who are making a difference every day in Orange County: nonprofit leaders, educators, civic volunteers, social entrepreneurs, or community-minded business leaders. Conversations with these role models can be inspiring, showing teens that real people can create meaningful change.
9. Connect with your OCCF Philanthropic Advisor on any next gen opportunities
The next time you plan to attend an Orange County Community Foundation gathering, ask us whether it might be a good fit to bring a teenager or grandchild. Your Philanthropic Advisor can also help identify upcoming events, site visits, or other opportunities that may be especially engaging for young people.
10. Focus on progress, not perfection
There is no single right way to raise charitable children and grandchildren. The goal isn’t to create experts overnight; it’s to create opportunities for curiosity, learning, and participation. Start small – these experiences can help teens build lifelong habits of generosity and civic engagement.
One of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation is the understanding that they have the power to make a difference. Reach out to your philanthropic advisor to learn more or, if you’re new to OCCF, start your giving journey here.
