More and more we hear of youngsters who are learning early about philanthropy. Rather than birthday presents, kids ask their guests to bring donations to the WCA. A special gift from a grandparent—instead of being spent on a toy–is brought in to help other kids. In December, the 4th, 5th and 6th graders at Taft Elementary chose the WCA to receive the funds from their Read-a-Thon. The children read 100 minutes apiece, and sponsors rewarded their efforts by donating 10 cents a minute or a lump sum. What an excited group they were when I accepted over $800 at a special assembly. The kids spoke very eloquently about helping the residents and children at our shelter. It was a wonderful day!