Engaging Young Children in Volunteerism: Opportunities and Benefits

Finding volunteer opportunities for families with young children can be difficult, as many nonprofit organizations often set age restrictions, typically requiring volunteers to be at least 18 years old. Cami Teacoach faced this challenge when searching for activities to do with her three-year-old son. After receiving multiple rejections, she established her own initiative, VolunTOTs, in Pittsburgh, which creates service opportunities for children as young as three. Teacoach emphasizes that young children can contribute meaningfully, stating, “A 3-year-old can’t do that... No, I swear, he really can if you would just give him a chance.”

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Engaging children in volunteer activities can instill confidence, teach social skills, and foster family bonding. Polly Lagana, executive director of Volunteer New York!, notes that many families are eager to show their children how to give back, especially during the holiday season. Children excel at tasks such as sorting coats and packing groceries, often demonstrating a level of detail and care that can surpass that of adults. Sapreet Saluja, executive director of New York Cares, highlights the importance of involving children in the decision-making process regarding volunteer activities, allowing them to understand the impact of their contributions.

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Aviva Davis, who began volunteering with her family at the age of eight by delivering Meals on Wheels, reflects on how these experiences opened her eyes to societal challenges. “It’s amazing what we’re doing that we could help people that aren’t as lucky as we were,” she stated. Her family continues to volunteer together, reinforcing family bonds while providing service to the community. Similarly, the Bernaba family initiated “Tough Cookies,” a project where they bake and deliver cookies to veterans. Matthew Bernaba, who initially felt shy, found that interacting with the veterans helped him develop social skills and confidence.

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Families can also create their own volunteer projects by connecting with local nonprofits. For instance, Bonnie Davis organized a drive for menstrual supplies, inviting families to assemble kits in her backyard. This approach not only benefits the community but also allows families to spend quality time together while instilling values of service in their children. Lagana encourages families to explore various options, such as organizing clothing donations or assembling snack packs, to foster a spirit of giving.

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Involving young children in volunteer activities provides numerous benefits, from enhancing their understanding of community issues to improving their behavior through the sense of accomplishment that comes from helping others. As families navigate the challenges of finding suitable volunteer opportunities, initiatives like VolunTOTs and community-driven projects offer valuable pathways for engagement. By fostering a culture of service, families can create lasting memories while making a positive impact in their communities.

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