Two local nonprofits — ThinkGive and Danny’s Place — have joined forces to bring social and emotional learning (SEL) programming to elementary students in Acton, MA, and surrounding communities. Funded by ThinkGive’s SEL for Every Child Fund, this support is provided to Danny’s Place at no cost.
Rooted in a shared mission to support young people’s growth and well-being, this collaboration integrates ThinkGive’s action-oriented SEL curriculum into Danny’s Place’s core programming. The goal is for youth to grow more confident, connected, and compassionate.
At Danny’s Place, students explore identity, build resilience, and develop leadership skills in a supportive environment. Now, with ThinkGive’s curriculum woven in, they’re also putting those values into action — practicing empathy, kindness, and self-reflection in real-life situations. The program challenges students to step outside their comfort zone, make thoughtful choices, and reflect on how their actions affect others.
Hannah Perry, Program Facilitator at Danny’s Place, reflected on her experience using the ThinkGive curriculum: “It’s been powerful to watch our students engage with the curriculum and see the shift in their confidence, empathy, and their ability to hold space for one another. I’ve seen firsthand how former participants carry the skills they’ve learned into other programs at Danny’s Place, becoming the sparks that ignite kindness and cultivate a stronger, more compassionate community.”
Penny Austen, Executive Director of ThinkGive, said the partnership exemplifies how local organizations can come together to create meaningful change. “This work is about equipping young people with the social and emotional tools they need to thrive — not just now, but for life,” she said. “Danny’s Place provides the perfect setting for this kind of growth.”
