It is never too early to instill philanthropy in a child, yet teaching them that it is better to give than to receive can be a difficult task. Still, a growing number of nonprofit organizations are being helped by these tiny philanthropists.

Since 1998, Mamie Martin’s Lil’ Panthers have donated more than $53,000 to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital by happily emptying their piggy banks, sacrificing snack money and soliciting donations from family members and friends, in order to make life better for other children, said Mamie Martin principal Rob McCreary.

The staff and teachers at Martin have taught their students that it’s not how much you give that counts, he explains, adding they are careful to teach the children that every penny counts towards helping a sick child.

Martin’s Lil’ Panthers have had real life experiences in helping sick children when teacher Ellie Phillips’ daughter Maggie Cupit and fellow student Kaley Wilkerson were diagnosed with cancer.

“The feeling of gratefulness is overwhelming,” stated Ellie Phillips. “You can’t imagine the wonderful feeling you get watching students share their money with other classmates or proudly bringing up a nickel to donate to charity,” she said.

“This is a lesson in giving and charity that they will remember and hopefully carry on throughout their lives,” Phillips continued. “I’m happy that Martin is playing a part in developing caring and loving human beings.”