About Us
Kids are naturally caring.
They notice who needs help and want to do something about it, often before anyone teaches them to.
But caring turns into action only when a child understands the issue and has a real say in what happens next.
The Giving Square builds that into every program. Children ask questions, hear different perspectives, and make real choices, then see the impact of those choices firsthand.
Our logo is inspired by the cobblestones of a town square: where a community gathers, where people give and receive help, and where everyone belongs. At The Giving Square, kids discover they are part of their community and can help shape its future.
Our Mission
The Giving Square provides kids with the learning experiences and tools for a lifetime of meaningful and impactful giving.
Our History
From a pilot at a local elementary school to a non-profit on the verge of national spread.
Spring 2017
Our Pilot
A group of parents, concerned about social divisions, bullying and loneliness in schools, pilot an innovative solution for promoting empathy and social responsibility with 40 fourth graders at Woodacres Elementary in Bethesda, Maryland.
2018
Steady Growth in Maryland
The Giving Square is official and we embark on a period of steady growth across a variety of schools and demographics.
2023
Accelerated Growth
Thanks to a formal partnership with Community Schools in Montgomery County, Maryland and a launch team in Springfield, Missouri, The Giving Square starts expanding across networks rather than individual schools.
2026
National Coverage Through Nickelodeon!
The Giving Square partners with Nickelodeon to show what happens when kids are meaningfully engaged in giving. Nickelodeon drops the story on November 20, 2026.
Our History
From one pilot at an elementary school to multiple programs and platforms across five states.
Spring 2017
Our Pilot
A group of parents, concerned about social divisions, bullying and loneliness in schools, pilot an innovative solution for promoting empathy and social responsibility with 40 fourth graders at Woodacres Elementary in Bethesda, Maryland.
2018
Steady Growth in Maryland
The Giving Square is official and we embark on a period of steady growth across a variety of schools and demographics.
2023
Accelerated Growth
Thanks to a formal partnership with Community Schools in Montgomery County,Maryland and launch team in Springfield, Missouri, The Giving Square starts expanding across networks rather than individual schools.
2026
National Coverage Through Nickelodeon!
The Giving Square partners with Nickelodeon to show what happens when kids are meaningfully engaged in giving. Nickelodeon drops the story on November 20, 2026.
WHERE WE’RE GOING
Communities that thrive because people grow up taking collective responsibility and caring for the well-being of others.
Special thanks to The Giving Square Community!
The Giving Square would not exist without the many individuals and organizations who have contributed their resources, expertise, and energy towards building this work from the ground up.
If this mission is compelling to you, we would love to explore how you might become a part of our future growth and evolution!
Non discrimination policy
The Giving Square is committed to equal opportunity and does not discriminate in its employment practices, program operations, or provision of services on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ancestry, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
