Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

11-29-2023

Find Volunteer Projects that Fit Your Family

Teen volunteers provide millions of hours of service each year. And these teens are not just making their communities better—they’re also doing something for themselves. Studies show that teens who volunteer just two hours a week are 50 percent less likely to smoke, drink or do drugs. In addition, teens who volunteer tend to earn better grades and develop leadership skills that will help them throughout life.

Families who volunteer together also see real benefits. They get to spend time together working toward the same goals. They see each other in new ways. (Who knew that David would be such a whiz with a hammer? Who knew that Mom could speak Spanish so well?)

With some creative thinking, your family can find a way to spread and share in the benefits of volunteering.

Here are some tips on how to make it work:

Take an inventory. Where do family members volunteer now? Would other family members like to join in?
Brainstorm. What other causes do your family members care about? What organizations work on those issues? If organized volunteer opportunities are scarce, what needs in your community could your family help meet on your own? Could you organize others to help you?
Start small. Choose a one-time activity. If you like it, make plans to do more.

Brought to you by:

Bob Harding Shawmut Elementary School

[School Success Ideas for Families]