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Have some fun ... and do some good!
Today, families are finding new ways
to spend time together - and volunteering is one way to do just that.
There are many benefits for families that volunteer. Research has shown
that volunteering as a family:
- Helps families learn about social
issues
- Provides positive role models and
passes on family values to children
- Provides new learning experiences
and development of new skills for both children and adults
- Provides quality time for the
family to spend together
- Increases interpersonal
communication and problem-solving abilities of family members
Planning
There are a variety of issues for your
family to consider before making the commitment to volunteer together:
- Your family may want to start
slowly. Consider a one-time or short-time volunteer activity before
making a long-term commitment.
- Consider doing your volunteer
activity with other family groups (PTAs, religious organizations,
neighbors or workplace groups).
- Consider everyone's busy schedule
when volunteering as a family. You may decide to volunteer
individually at different times.
- If volunteering with children,
ask about any issues related to their needs or safety concerns.
During and after the volunteer project
- Take responsibility for
supervising your children. Their experience and that of anyone
working with you will be more positive if everyone is focused on the
work to be done.
- Talk openly about your
experiences on the drive home, during meals or whenever your family
has time together. Both adults and children will benefit from the
opportunity to discuss everyone's reactions to the volunteer
activities.
- Let your volunteer coordinator
know if your family has any special concerns or problems, and
discuss how you can work together for a satisfactory solution. Share
your positive experiences, too!
- Keep a journal with photos and
stories of your family's volunteer activities. Share the journal
with relatives, co-workers and their friends.
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