6 Kid-Friendly Place to Volunteer this Summer

School is out, and the kids are home for the summer. The fridge is stocked with food and they sit themselves in front of the TV without a care in the world. This summer, give your kids the gift of appreciation and volunteer as a family! It’s the perfect way to develop and promote strong work ethics and a sense of self. No matter what your family’s interests are or the ages of everyone involved, there’s an opportunity out there. Check out these amazing opportunities.

Nursing Homes

Do your kids love their grandparents? Give them a few more by volunteering at a nursing home. From playing games, sharing meals, and enjoying good conversation, it’s a good way to show the senior community that they’re still valued and cared about.

Animal Shelter

If your family is all about animals, head to your local animal shelter or humane society and volunteer. Younger kids can help out at local pet store and shelter adoptions, as well as feeding, walking, and playing with them. Volunteering as a foster also helps, giving a home to a furry friend in need.

Soup Kitchen

Most families have an abundance of food while some struggle to make ends meet. Grab the kids and head to your local soup kitchen where kids can help serve hot meals to those in need. Younger kids can help by donating food, while learning how their donation will benefit families and people in need.

Children’s Hospitals

Younger volunteers are perfect for helping out at a children’s hospital. It helps them grasp the fact that not everyone is perfectly healthy, and gives kids the opportunity to play together and take a break from the reality of being hospitalized.

Library

The last place your kids may want to volunteer during their summer break is the library, but if your child is a fan of books, it’s the perfect summer vacation. Many public libraries feature junior volunteer programs that let kids help out around the library with odd jobs around the stacks.

Public Parks

Get some fresh air and volunteer at your local public park. Duties could be as simple as picking up trash, pulling weeds, or organizing larger-scale cleanups. This is a great way for kids to see how their efforts directly benefit their community.

Source: http://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/family/parenting/bonding/10-kid-friendly-places-to-volunteer.htm