Philanthropy Among Our Next Gen
As I reflect on this past year and think about goals for the New Year, philanthropy and service projects for my family are at the top of my list. Life gets busy and with so many other commitments, it’s hard to find time to serve others as a family. But, when you do, you are not only doing good for the people you serve but you are also setting a great example for your children. Finding age appropriate family projects to help with is easy. Whether it’s donating winter coats to the Salvation Army or giving food to a food pantry, there are many ways that we can help those in need.
It’s important to create opportunities for meaningful hands-on learning when volunteering with kids. The opportunities and ways to give back will change through time as children get older. For example, when they are young, you can participate in food drives, have them clean out their toys and clothes they no longer use and bring them to a homeless shelter, or perhaps even go to an animal rescue and bring food or toys. As kids get older, the opportunities to become involved are greater and they will begin to see what areas they are most drawn to. My girls and I have been volunteering for a couple of years at an after-school program for at risk youth. We tutor elementary school kids and often bring food and serve them dinner. They have also really enjoyed planting an edible garden for the Atlanta Community Food Bank and making hygiene kits for the homeless at Buckhead Christian Ministries. They key is finding something that you can all do together.
Another important thing to mention is that helping a nonprofit doesn’t always mean giving a monetary donation. Organizations are looking for hands-on volunteers and I believe that is much more meaningful lesson for children. It teaches empathy and helps give them a sense of perspective. Maybe their day at school isn’t going as bad as they thought? While they may complain that they have way to much homework that night or that they have a teacher they don’t like, some kids don’t know where their next meal will come from. This is a reality for so many kids on a day to day basis. This perspective is helpful for everyone. Even adults. Sometimes we just need a little reminder of all that’s good and positive in our lives and that we all need to lend a helping hand!
Two websites that will help provide options for volunteer opportunities in your community are :
https://www.justserve.org/organizations
https://www.volunteermatch.org
Hopefully this will help you find what you and your family are passionate about. Its never too early to start cultivating a sense of compassion and service to and for others with your kids or even in your workplace. I always say that every little bit of good that we do in this world helps. If we could all just do our part, it can really make a difference.