You want to volunteer, but you have kids? Take the kids with you!

FAMILIES, TEENS, AND KIDS VOLUNTEERING IN MONTREAL

Although it can be a difficult conversation to have, make sure you are raising a socially conscious family that is aware of the conditions around them. Together, have conversations that encourage children to share what causes they are passionate about and act on it collectively. As a family, do some research on the causes and organizations around you. Then, brainstorm what ways that you would all like to contribute to this cause. It is important to help children understand that giving back is not necessarily equated to monetary value; there are many other ways in which families can help out.  Here are just a few…

HAVE A CHARITABLE BIRTHDAY PARTY

If your child’s birthday is right around the corner – consider asking party guests to donate to a charitable cause that your child has chosen instead of buying them gifts. Another alternative to this idea is to ask guests to bring gifts that will be donated.

OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW

Playing off the birthday party idea – perhaps encourage children to share their “wealth”, so to speak, by asking them to donate one item for every new item that they receive. Start this project at the beginning of the month and collect donation items in a box. By the end of the month, your child will be able to see the difference that they will make in someone else’s life. This method works with toys and clothes alike.

ADOPT A FAMILY

There are many different programs of this type that share a similar goal – which is to ensure that families receive help through the generosity and kindness of others. Taking on this project as a family helps other families in need, by providing them with all the basic necessities that they might need over the holidays. i.e. bedding, diapers, winter clothing, etc.

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