No society could ever get by if every citizen was only interested in his own good. Selfless volunteers are the crux of much of a community’s growth. When it comes to service, age is no boundary; the only thing that matters in a volunteer is a kind heart. It is never too early to start giving back to others, and there are many good reasons to do so.
Serving one’s community is an eye-opening experience that can shape one’s view of the world. It teaches valuable things such as work ethic, teamwork and the ability to see good even in unfortunate circumstances. Relationships often grow from these experiences as people learn to see through others’ eyes. Volunteering in any capacity has the potential to change lives – not just the lives of the served, but of the servant as well. When you give of your time and resources, not only do you gain a deeper appreciation for what you have, but you may also learn how to help others with talents you were previously unaware of.
Now that summer has arrived, what better time is there to jump in and take action? There are endless ways to help others in need. Laura Grace Weldon writes on her blog (www.lauragraceweldon.com/2013/06/27/40-ways-kids-can-volunteer-toddler-to-teen/) that “often, volunteering isn’t ‘official’.” No matter your age, there are always ways to chip in, and they don’t always involve signing up for a program. Often, those random acts of kindness that seem small are the ones which have the biggest impact.
Kids can make gifts for teachers or anyone whom they encounter and want to bless. They can rake leaves or collect mail for those in the neighborhood who need the extra help. www.Weevolunteer.org has several programs tailored to younger kids and their parents, such as Wipe Out Graffiti, Meals on Wheels and Heart House. The fun kids have while giving back at an early age will become some of their most precious memories as adults.
Teens have unique opportunities to serve as they are beginning to explore the world of adulthood. Since this is the stage of life in which many are learning of and developing their talents, teens can find volunteering opportunities they are passionate about and pursue them. Artistically inclined students can gather a few friends and perform free shows for charities, whether in a band or acting troupe. Those who love animals can play with puppies in an animal shelter, and those who love kids can help out in a Sunday school classroom or tutor refugee children. One of the best resources for teen-oriented campaigns is www.dosomething.org, where programs exist for all kinds of causes ranging from anti-bullying to heart health awareness.
One of the best ways to serve is as a family. Consider donating to a local food pantry, raising a service dog or putting together activity boxes for hospitalized children. Even something as simple as picking up trash around the neighborhood can be made fun when it is a family effort! When parents expose their children and teenagers to different serving experiences, it plants a seed of generosity that will grow throughout their lifetimes. For more information on family volunteering, visit www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/style/volunteer-with-your-kids.org.
Think of how much good can be accomplished if everyone lends a helping hand. It starts with a choice, so make the choice to give back. For additional ways to serve, visit www.volunteermatch.org.