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.

1. 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.

    

2. 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.
3. 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.
   
4. 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.
   
5. Start a Charity Tradition Idea #3: Brighten up a nursing home by bringing homemade decorations (think paper snowflakes, garlands, etc.) for residents' rooms.
   
6. 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}