Parents and teachers can help guide little ones and youth to make a difference in the world. No act of kindness is too small to be performed. The world is in need of joy and what better humans to radiate it than children? Remember Margaret Meads words: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
Kids must be encouraged to be a light for those in need. Volunteer opportunities that allow kids to see the benefits of that service are the best kinds to begin with.
Below is a list of charitable activities that children of various ages can participate in. Some may spark more interest than others. Try to be attentive to which area of community service a child is particularly drawn to and continue exploring that area.
Generosity and kindness are universal virtues that enrich lives. Notably, “The miracle is this – the more we share, the more we have.” (Leonard Nimoy)
Community Helper Ideas
- Volunteer at a local museum. If there is a children’s museum close by, older children can donate time decoration, cleaning up, being a helper to younger children, etc.
- Sponsor a soldier. Children can create a relationship with a soldier through a national program like Soldiers Angels. They can collect items to send overseas, as well as keep touch through letter writing.
- Retirement homes are another opportunity. Whatever a child’s skill is, be it singing or drawing or playing bingo, local residents welcome sunshine from children.
- Serve and package meals at a soup kitchen. Older children can gain great perspective conversing with the recipients.
Cooking Ideas
- Bake cookies for a local fundraiser to support a chosen cause
- Take meals to a firehouse. Not only will it help remind them of how much they are appreciated, but a free tour might ensue.
- Bring back the spirit of a close-knit community and welcome any newcomers with a cake or pie. Strong, positive relationships with people from all walks of life build a better world.
- Leave a special note and treat to say thank you to your mail person. It’ll break up the humdrum of his day.
Booklover Ideas
- Make small notebooks and covers and take to the local hospital waiting rooms for waiting children to doodle on. It could be a Godsend for parents, too.
- Collect old books and magazines and donate them to a retirement home.
- Give a copy of a favorite book to children’s home to spread the joy of reading and adventure.
Animal Lover Ideas
- Bake or buy dog treats and take them to a local shelter.
- Offer time for companionship and cleaning to a humane society.
- Pass out informative flyers to pet owners about proper animal caretaking. It could save a pet’s life.
- Volunteer at a local wildlife foundation, participating in programs that are personally important.
- Pet-sit for neighbors in need. Its fun, rewarding, and teaches great responsibility.
Kids care the next leaders. Fostering altruism and kindness early on puts them on the right path. Children who volunteer are embarking on a solid journey to create a better world.
Source: Quotes are from Alpena Volunteer Center
