Volunteer for you & your Family
Volunteering within one’s community is a powerful and transformative experience, especially for kids and families. Beyond the immediate impact on local organizations and individuals in need, engaging in volunteer activities offers numerous benefits for personal development, community bonding, and instilling a sense of responsibility. In this article, we’ll explore why volunteering is crucial for kids and families.
I believe volunteering exposes children to diverse perspectives and challenges, fostering empathy and compassion. Understanding the struggles of others from different walks of life instills a sense of social responsibility and a willingness to make a positive impact. Volunteer activities offer practical, hands-on learning experiences that complement formal education. Kids can apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, gaining a deeper understanding of societal issues and civic responsibilities.
I love volunteering with my daughter, Sophie! I think that volunteering as a family creates shared experiences, strengthening the bonds between family members. Working together towards a common goal promotes communication, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment, fostering a supportive family environment. I am always looking for ways to teach my daughter about the lives and cultures of others and volunteering plays a big role in that.
She is exposed to various social situations, helping her develop communication and interpersonal skills. Whether working with peers
or adults, these experiences contribute to enhanced social awareness and the ability to collaborate effectively. I hope that she develops a sense of purpose through volunteering. I want her to know that she is contributing to her community’s well-being and fostering a positive self-image. Over the years, Sophie and I have participated in several volunteer opportunities including can drives, book drives, school fundraisers, and popcorn sales. She has helped at a Texarkana based non- profit For the Sake of One volunteering her time sorting through donation for their Blessing Boutique, as well. We volunteered there together because I have a close connection to the foster community and I want her to always be accepting of others no matter their background or home life.
Engaging in volunteer work within the community is not just about offering help to those in need; it’s a transformative experience that shapes the character of children and strengthens family bonds. Through empathy, communication skills, and a sense of purpose, volunteering becomes a valuable tool for personal development and community building. Encouraging kids and families to volunteer not only benefits the recipients but also contributes to the overall well-being and cohesion of the community as a whole.
By Katie Stone, Co-Publisher of Texarkana Parent Magazine
