There’s a new trend in birthday parties.  And especially significant parties like Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah’s where lots of gifts are given.  Kids are now choosing to forego presents for themselves in lieu of contributions to their favorite charity.  Young children and teenagers across the world are getting involved in philanthropy more than ever.  New technologies are often credited with the rise of the trend, as young people are much more exposed to and connected with the problems of the world via the internet and television.  Parents are also finding new ways to instill in their children the value of giving.  Websites like Club Penguin have made it easy for children to give.  Another site, ECHOage.com, manages to pool gifts of money so that half goes to a single charitable cause of the birthday child’s choice, and half goes towards one special gift for the birthday child.  Invitations to the party are sent via e-mail, and guests may make a secure online donation.  No shopping, wrapping, or returning gifts – so the gift is environmentally sound, educational, and cause-oriented.