Charity: Much Obliged

Posted by Steve Lettau

on May 14, 2015

May 2015 | The Rotarian Magazine

Last year, my two older children launched an endeavor called the All Stars Animal Clinic. With the help of their friend Fiona, Josie, 8, and Judah, 6, devoted themselves to the veterinary care of creatures ranging from earthworms to injured birds. I’ve been privy to the All Stars’ various medical interventions because their headquarters is under the porch stairs outside my office.

Several months ago, the founders expanded their mission. As Josie explained it to me, rather breathlessly, “We’re going to make money and give it to poor people!”

I have no clue where they got this idea. I suspected that Fiona, who comes from a family of regular church goers, had put them up to it. But the kids insisted the plan was conceived spontaneously. Whatever the inspiration, All Stars has become a thriving charitable organization with multiple revenue streams. The kids have sold lemonade and healing crystals. They’ve babysat. They’ve scratched the backs of itchy parents.

I was so inspired by their good intentions and industry that I pledged to contribute $100 for every $1 they raised. A few weeks ago, the All Stars solemnly presented me with their endowment: $26. Gulp.

But a promise is a promise, particularly when that promise was issued to three child philanthropists. Our charity of choice was Doctors Without Borders.

As my wife will tell you, I am a devout cheapskate, the kind of guy who can spend 20 minutes anguishing over whether to purchase a cup of yogurt for $1.39 – before deciding not to. The strange thing about writing that check for the All Stars is that I never suffered a moment of regret. On the contrary, seeing my children act on their altruistic impulses has led me to think that I’ve been too selfish all along.