Birthdays are now opportunities to make meaning in a larger way–supporting a creative artist or organization. I recently received a birthday invitation from a Gen Y-er that was part celebration, part philanthropy, part concert–held at a local theatre with a blues singer on stage, donations going to a Denver art center.

While the wealthy may have documented the same concept with society page photos, this event was captured with a YouTube video.  According to the host, the event raised nearly $1500 and will support "the creative residency" of a local artist.

Making meaning in the world and having fun at the same time are not mutually exclusive.