Volunteering For The Kids In Need

Volunteering for kids enhances family interactions, improves personal skills, and enriches the lives of individuals. When volunteering as a family, each family member interacts with others and finds opportunities to reflect. Individuals that volunteer engage in active learning and build a sense of civic responsibility. Volunteering exposes kids to new situations so they discover new interests and talents. Kids who may struggle in school or competitive activities will shine in the right volunteer setting. When someone expresses appreciation for a specific contribution a teen has made, it may be the first time he realizes he has a valuable gift to offer. Learning opportunities can be found not only at school but also within the family and community. Parents and caregivers can promote learning experiences by volunteering with their children in organizations, communities, sports, and many other ways. Volunteering can give kids a chance to see themselves in a new light. As our teens contribute to the greater good, they’ll learn a powerful lesson. They can make a positive difference in the world.

When asked about the benefits of volunteering for kids together as a family, the participants identified several factors:

·         It brings the family closer together

·         Value system strengthened by volunteering; children see parents are involved

·         It builds extended family among youth and other youth as well as youth and adults

·         Self-satisfaction; makes you feel good

·         Strength in numbers; family gets more done than individual

·         Increases family members’ self- esteem, skills acquisition, and opportunities to give back

·         Promotes exposure to real world experiences and career information

·         Provides access to social, physical, and financial resources

·         Fun; social; gives children and youth something to do meaningful

Volunteering for kids teaches even toddlers and preschoolers about compassion, empathy, tolerance, gratitude, and community responsibility. And children who volunteer are more likely to continue doing so as adults. If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, chances are other families in your community are as well. Start by talking to the administration at your kids’ school or your place of worship. They’re likely to already sponsor coat drives, book collections, food pantries, and other efforts for those in need and chances are they need help. An easy way to find out about volunteer opportunities in your area is to call your local volunteer center and describe your location, interests and the ages of your children. The center will probably have a database and be able to match you with an appropriate volunteer project. You can also contact your churches about which charitable groups in your area have requested help. If you've decided on volunteering for kids job, talk to the agency's volunteer coordinator about training and orientation. Visit by yourself before making a commitment, and trust your instincts about whether you think it will be a comfortable environment for you and your children. Family service also promotes empathy and helps children learn to recognize their personal good fortune and blessings. Volunteering together fosters positive communication and strengthens bonds in ways no other activity can.