How I Learned to Give

"My mother, who moved to Louisville in 1945, was a Christian and thus a social justice advocate. I was accordingly raised with the conviction that it was my responsibility to promote equality of opportunity for all people, particularly for people whose circumstances were challenging. At various times, she and I explored the Eastern region of the state, and thus I became aware of the issues faced by many in Appalachia. As an adult living in the Northeast, I had to decide where my discretionary income could be directed most appropriately. Christian Appalachian Project came to my attention, and its reputation was a highly effective charity. I have found this to be true, and I unconditionally endorse the work of this very committed group of genuinely kind individuals. Their care for the people in Appalachia is invaluable and a true testament to their name.” – Barbara M., New York

"I was raised by Christian parents who modeled for me what giving looked like while growing up. They instilled the sense of responsibility that we are called to give as a response to how much God has given us. Without directly saying so, my parents showed me daily that to whom much is given, much will be required. Giving was exemplified in many forms, by my parents, through their giving, monetarily or with physical items, to people in need and giving in service to others. Additionally, my parents held the belief that we should not only tithe but, we should give beyond that tithe whenever we are able to. It gives me great joy to still hear stories of my parents’ generosity in the lives of others, decades after they have gone home to be with the Lord.” – Amy P., Illinois

“I learned the ‘generosity habit’ from my parents. There was not a lot of extra money around as we were a family of eight, and a dog, and dad was a salesman. But there was an envelope for church every Sunday and I remember seeing correspondence from other charities. Mom and Dad contributed their time to church, our school activities, and were always there to assist their friends at a moment’s notice. We were also blessed to have a Catholic education, where charity was constantly and consistently taught and exemplified. To summarize, we were taught to give, regardless of circumstances. If money is tight, give of your time and talent. If things are going well, donate a bit more. Do it thoughtfully and more importantly, cheerfully. As the good Lord promised, He has truly blessed us tenfold.” – Diane and Joe D., Florida

“I learned to be generous from my parents’ example. My dad was one of 10 children raised on a farm in Northern Minnesota. He knew what is was like to do without, but that didn’t make him bitter. Instead, he worked hard and was grateful for what he had. I remember once he got a bonus at work, and he invited about 12 of us to a nice dinner at a favorite restaurant. Mom taught me to tithe, starting with my weekly allowance. She gave $5 per week, which was generous in those days, for helping with the housework. She didn’t force me to tithe, she just set an example by doing it herself.” – Linda J., California

“One of my favorite memories is a story I heard about my mom when she was a small child. She lived in Ireland and sometimes people out of luck would come by their house to ask for food or other help. One day when someone came to the door, my mom was hiding behind the door and peeked under to see who it was. She saw a man standing there with no shoes, so she ran to her room and got her own little shoes to give to him. She obviously had learned generosity from what she experienced in her home and carried that throughout her life through her actions with our family and our community. My dad, an immigrant from Slovakia, grew up equally generous with his gifts. His dad worked in a coal mine in Pennsylvania to support his family. He lost his life to black lung disease as a result of this. When my dad learned of the work Rev. Beiting did with coal miners, he immediately and for many years supported this ministry. Upon his death, I felt called to continue his gift and feel privileged to do so in honor of my grandpa and so many like him. Helping people in need has always been a hallmark of our family. I suppose you can say that generosity is a virtue handed down as a gift to share with the world.” – Margaret D., Ohio