Early in my parenting years, I discovered that nothing makes a point better than an example. Meaning, we can tell our children about things, or we can show them the things. As mothers, we remind our children of those who have less, of needs that exist, or how we ourselves have gone without. “Without” can mean many things; without food, without money, without friends, without family, without good health, without hope.
Often in our (generally/ globally/ comparatively) privileged midwestern existence, these needs in society can go unseen. And for all of us, but especially children, nothing fills in the gaps like real world experience. Less focus on themselves, more on others.
Many volunteer opportunities are perfect for families to serve together. A good way to find the right opportunity for your family is to decide whether you’re interested in a one-time project or a longer-term commitment. Often you will find friends who would love to volunteer with you in a group setting. You can then research online and/or call the appropriate organization to ask how you can help.
Depending on your family dynamic, interests, and age of children here are some volunteer opportunities in which you can serve together:
- If your family has a soft spot for animals, maybe your local pet shelter or humane society is a good fit. This is a great opportunity to give back to vulnerable animals. Whether it’s through direct care like dog walking and kennel cleaning, or fundraising and pet supply donation, the whole family can “lend a paw.”
- Nursing homes and senior centers provide excellent intergenerational connections. Activities like card games, sharing a meal, even watching TV together can be special activities that everyone looks forward to. Seniors have amazing stories to share, and we should remind them of what a valuable part of society they are.
- Food insecurity and chronic hunger is poised to affect nearly 1 billion people in the next few years. Most children I know think they are starving an hour after a meal. Establishing a lifelong and developing perspective when it comes to hunger and its effects on society is not a small issue. But bringing in donations to your local food shelf or volunteering at a soup kitchen can have lasting impact on young minds, and can be a profound reminder to us all of our common fragile existence.
- It can be hard for kids to realize that other kids can’t easily run, jump, or attend school due to severe and ongoing illness. While hospitals may have restrictive volunteer requirements, local guest houses for families with children often welcome people to make and serve meals, and almost all will welcome specific donations for their young patients.
- Do your kids love the park as much as mine? Of course they do! So let’s all take care of these fun spaces. Picking up trash can be done anytime, or more organized events for weed-pulling and trash pickup are easily found on social media and other websites. Teaching kids to take care of the places they enjoy translates to all aspects of life.
However big or small your family, whatever time or resource you have to offer, whichever opportunity you choose, know that you are preparing your children to serve others, be aware of need and show compassion to all.
