The Pod Model
In the early 1990s the Board and Staff of the Dekko Foundation became interested in teaching young people about philanthropy. They had a vision for communities that they served to have a decision-making body of youth who could exercise their philanthropic muscles by using their time, talent and treasure for the good of the community.
In 1993, they started the first Pod in Noble County, Indiana. Over the next several years, Pods would spring up in each of the 13 counties that the Dekko Foundation serves in Indiana, Iowa, Alabama, and most recently, Minnesota.
Why the name Pods?
After all, we aren’t talking about gardening here. When a baby whale is born into its pod (a group of whales) it’s mother, or another adult in the pod, must push the baby to the surface for its first breath of air. Youth Pods provide an opportunity for young people to get their first breath of “philanthropic air” from caring and supportive adults…hence the name “Youth Pods.”