Make Volunteering Fun

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

23 Apr 2009 11:58 AM

Volunteering can be a rewarding family activity, but if you have reluctant children, then giving back to those less fortunate can be a challenge.

The key to motivating your kids to give back is to make the experience as fun as possible. Fortunately, some of the most fulfilling volunteer projects can be found right in your neighborhood. For example, raking leaves in an elderly neighbor's yard or painting murals at a local community center can be a fun and rewarding family affair.

All children have different talents and interests; parents should encourage their kids to share these special gifts during volunteering opportunities. By doing so, your son or daughter will likely enjoy giving back a bit more. For example, if your son is a computer whiz, then have him volunteer to teach senior citizens how to communicate with their grandchildren via the Internet. If your daughter loves to sing, encourage her to provide entertainment at a local nursing home. Likewise, if your child excels at English he could volunteer as a tutor to children or adults who struggle to read.

If your children prefer not to interact with strangers, they could use their talents in other ways. For instance, if your child likes to sew or knit, have her create something that can be donated to someone in need. Hospitals, domestic abuse shelters and nursing homes often welcome colorful handmade quilts for their patients and residents.

If you don't have the ability to share your time and talent with others, then consider collecting a weekly donating allowance. Your children could give up a portion of their allowance and donate it to a charity of their choice. They could decide to support an organization that helps needy children or animals. Allowing them to choose the group of their choice helps them become engaged in causes that excite them. To take this one step further, consider scheduling a family visit to the various charities to see the work firsthand. The hands-on experience could help spark a lifetime of volunteerism and community involvement.

Related Articles:

Thanks for Giving

Charity and the Preschooler

Reaching Out to Others

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger