Volunteerism & Kids: Five Compelling Causes

Eliza Clark
July 23, 2012

There’s no doubt that volunteering is, in theory, a wonderful activity and learning experience for children. In practice, though, it can be tricky is to find the right volunteering opportunity for younger children. The cause must be something that compels them: people or animals with whom they can empathize, or a place they particularly love. Also, the endeavor must be suitable for their age, commensurate with their abilities, at once challenging and enjoyable.

In any locality there are bound to be lots of possibilities, and the best way to choose among them is to let your child’s interests lead the way.  Most of the kids we know, wherever they may live, tend to be interested in the same sorts of causes. Generally, these are things kids can see with their own eyes and appreciate in daily life. Some popular causes among the younger crowd include:

• Animal shelters. Some of you may have adopted your beloved pets from an animal shelter, so your children can fully appreciate the important work they do. There are many ways for kids to help, from collecting old stuffies and linens to spending time playing with or grooming the animals.

• Can drives and soup kitchens. Food is such a basic need that it is easy for kids to empathize with those who are hungry. Many schools organize can drives during the holiday season, but food pantries need supplies all year long, and soup kitchens operate at churches every night of the week. Children are often welcome as helpers, so it’s a possibility well worth looking into.

• A local park. No one appreciates the value of a park or playground better than our kids. An effort to beautify or rebuild a local park is a great cause for kids to get behind with their trash-clean up and weeding abilities, and talent for community outreach (aka cute hand-drawn posters).

• Walking for a cure. Incurable illnesses affect all of us, young and old alike. Sadly, most kids know someone who has been affected by cancer, diabetes, or another devastating disease. Doing something active to help find a cure is a wonderful way for them to show they care.

• Visiting a nursing home. Relationships between old and young people are a lovely thing, and the benefits flow in both directions. A weekly game of cards or knitting session with an elderly resident may just be the good work that feeds your child’s soul.