Volunteering: Let's Get Started!

An Excerpt from The Busy Family's Guide to Volunteering: Doing Good Together

By Jenny Friedman

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Are your children early risers or late sleepers? Does your daughter need an afternoon nap? Does your son count on going out with friends on Friday evenings? Are you too exhausted after a typical workday to tackle another commitment? Think about these patterns and preferences when choosing a volunteer activity. Also, pick a location that's convenient for you. You don't want the chore of getting there to interfere with your enthusiasm.

One Sunday a month for many years, three families met at a local homeless shelter to cook and serve dinner. The children enjoyed spending time with one another, and volunteering provided the adults with a regular time each month to talk while they prepared the food. Some people feel that volunteering with other families enriches their experience. Others prefer to have the time alone with their immediate family. Discuss which option you prefer.

Kids, especially younger ones, may need your help articulating their ideas and opinions as you discuss family volunteering. Ask them questions and listen carefully to what they have to say. If your child seems overwhelmed by all the discussion, you may need to talk with your child alone to draw out more honest responses. Explain each of the issues in words your child can understand. Again, it's important to gather every family member's cooperation and enthusiasm as you begin to narrow down the possibilities.

Action Without Borders
Check here for volunteer opportunities anywhere in the world, including overseas. The number of opportunities listed in each category is limited, however. Be certain to check out the section called "Kids & Teens."

Hands On Network

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