GREEN BAY A class at UW-Green Bay is making a difference by teaching students how to become philanthropists, using real world dollars.

All semester long, these students learned that philanthropy means much more than just handing out big checks.

They’re enrolled in a one-of-a-kind Strategic Philanthropy class. “But, we all came together.”

Then, they sought out local groups in need.

“They requested proposals from non-profits fitting their criteria and the non-profits were wonderful,” said Lora Warner, their professor.

This week, UW-Green Bay students gave ten thousand dollars to the Family Services Transitional Living program of Brown County.

“Transitional living is an opportunity for youth that are homeless. With nearly 1,000 people homeless, Brown County has the third highest homelessness rate in the state.

Family Services says more than 100 young people in our community are on a wait list for housing opportunities.

The transitional living program director says the ten thousand dollars is an important step forward.

“This actually will provide shelter dollars to these kids so this will pay for their rent in order to live successfully in the community,” said Burnikel.

Professor Lora Warner says the grant money comes from the Learning by Giving Foundation.

“We are the only class that I know of like this in Wisconsin,” said Warner. “It’s to encourage students to become philanthropists and encourage them to be involved in the community.”

Students say being able to give such a large gift is a feeling they’ve never had.

“To actually have ten thousand dollars to actually give away is quite an amazing experience,” said Decoster.

And they hope to continue their work with non-profits even after this class is dismissed.

UWGB has the only undergraduate certificate in non-profit management in the state.