The Sacramento region ranks below average compared to other cities in the U.S. for philanthropic giving, especially for those under the age of 40.

A new initiative in Sacramento is trying to spark philanthropy among younger men by creating a competition event for non-profits, similar to TV show Shark Tank.

At the event, 100 men gather to hear quick-fire pitch presentations from several local non-profits. At the outset, each man pledges to contribute $100.

A winner is chosen at the end of the presentation and receives $10,000. For most non-profits, that money can make a big difference, but the larger goal is to get men to think about philanthropy and giving at an earlier age.

We’ll talk with Patrick Harbison, one of the council and with leaders of two non-profits that have taken part to find out why an event like this is needed in the Sacramento region. 

The council has its final meeting of the year on Oct. 25.