About Us
Founded in 2008 by educator Jenn Welby Gilbert, The Giving Project was created to show children that they have the power to make a meaningful difference in the world—starting right where they are. What began as a classroom initiative has grown into a powerful movement rooted in kindness, leadership, empathy, and service.
For more than two decades, Jenn has inspired young people to “grow toward their goals and change the world a little bit each day.” Through The Giving Project, students learn that philanthropy is not reserved for adults—it belongs to anyone with compassion, creativity, and the courage to take action. Students identify causes they care about, design service projects, raise funds, collect supplies, and experience firsthand the impact of helping others.
Under Jenn’s leadership, hundreds of students have developed into thoughtful, confident changemakers. Together, these young philanthropists have raised more than $400,000 to support organizations and individuals in need.
Jenn is an award-winning elementary educator whose career has included teaching first, second, and third grades in Pennsylvania schools, including Gladwyne Elementary School and Chester Community Charter School. In 2025, she was honored as a Philadelphia Phillies Teacher of the Year, recognizing her outstanding impact on students and the broader community.
While she is deeply passionate about education and service, the role she treasures most is being mom to her two sons, Brendan and Jameson.
The Giving Project is also grounded in gratitude. Jenn credits her parents, Debbie and Paul, for teaching her the lifelong values of sacrifice, generosity, and empathy, and her husband Dave for his unwavering support and encouragement.
At its heart, The Giving Project believes one simple truth: when children are empowered to give, they grow into adults who lead with purpose.
