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Volunteer as a
Family
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 the
problem-solving abilities of family members
Planning
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There are a variety of
issues for your family to consider before
making the commitment to volunteer together.
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Your family may want
to start slowly. Consider a one-time or
short-term volunteer activity before making
a long-term commitment.
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Consider doing your
volunteer activity with other family groups
(PTAs, religious organizations, neighbors or
workplace groups).
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Consider everyone’s
busy schedule when volunteering as a family.
You may decide to volunteer individually at
different times.
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If volunteering with
children, ask about any issues related to
their needs or safety concerns.
During
and after the volunteer project
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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.
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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.
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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!
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Keep a journal with
photos and stories of your family’s
volunteer activities. Share the journal with
relatives, co-workers and friends.
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Have fun! It is not
only allowed, but it should be a
requirement!
Be proud of what your family has accomplished.
Your family’s self-esteem will continue to climb
as you move on to future projects.
Click here to access the adult
volunteer directory or youth
volunteer directory to find an opportunity
that fits your interest, and then go out and
make a difference in your community.
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