Activity time: 75 minutes

Materials for Activity

• A copy of the 2012 documentary DVD Wants and Needs: A Generational Study on Economic Depressions (56.41)
• DVD player and large monitor or projection screen
• Simple refreshments such as lemonade and popcorn

Preparation for Activity

• Obtain a copy of the PBS-aired documentary film Wants and Needs from the distributor, Mantis and Moon Moving Pictures and Sound. The producer of the film has given permission for this film to be screened by Unitarian Universalist congregations and groups who are using the Wi$dom Path program. There is no need to seek permission for public screening.
• Set up and test equipment.
• Prepare refreshments.

Description of Activity

Show the film. Facilitate discussion afterward, using questions such as these:

• What generational characteristics highlighted by the film have you observed in your family or congregation?
• What is the potential impact of differing generational expectations around “want” and “need”?
• Is your congregation stuck in a particular generational pattern about money issues (for example, debt)? What does that mean for people who are part of generations who don’t subscribe to the same way of thinking?
• Are there people who might feel unwelcome in serving in particular areas of congregational life (such as the Finance Committee) because of their generational perspectives on money?