Lend a Hand All Year 'Round!
Volunteering during the holidays gets kids in the habit of helping those in need, but so many families do it that most charities see a huge surge in donations and participation each December - it's every other time of the year that they need attention. Here, three ways to get your family to do good and keep up the bighearted action in the off-season.
- Start a Charity Tradition Idea #1: Many churches and soup kitchens prepare Christmas dinners for the needy; just call ahead to find out how your crew can pitch in.
- Keep It Going Idea #1: Fight hunger throughout the year by volunteering one afternoon a month at a food bank. For locations, visit feedingamerica.org.
- Start a Charity Tradition Idea #2: Help make wishes come true by assisting with a holiday toy drive for needy kids in your area. Go to secretsanta.org for events near you.
- Keep It Going Idea #2: Sponsor an underprivileged child abroad and make an ongoing impact on her future. Click on savethechildren.org for info on getting involved.
- Start a Charity Tradition Idea #3: Brighten up a nursing home by bringing homemade decorations (think paper snowflakes, garlands, etc.) for residents' rooms.
- Keep It Going Idea #3: Check in with the home's volunteer coordinator about activities your family can help out with regularly, like craft sessions or reading hour.
{This post is an excerpt from "Lend a Hand All Year 'Round" as published in Parents Magazine}
I'm a former 7th grade Science teacher turned stay-at-home mom that lives in Houston, Texas. I am married to my college sweetheart and have a beautiful daughter named Riley, who definitely keeps me on my toes! I am also involved in starting a small business which would both manufacture and sell an invention that I've patented, called Toothpaste 2 Go. I love interacting with my readers and hope to learn as much about you as you learn about me!
Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley!
Add Melissa Cleaver to your LinkedIn Network
Add Mommy Living the Life of Riley to your Google+ circle |