Tis' the season for giving and caring about those around us in need, this season in particular seems to bring out the giving nature of many. As parents many of us seek a well rounded upbringing experience for our children, this includes teaching them about philanthropy, kindness, and giving back.
Giving back does not always have to mean doing something with money, or even things, but giving of our time, energy and effort to help another human being. In many cases we can even find relatable experiences where they can identify with the recipients of our volunteering efforts ie: kids like them.
This season, I have found FOUR opportunities to volunteer "virtually" or easily from the comfort of home, to make an impact and give back this season with the whole family.
1. Color-A-Smile https://colorasmile.org/
Color-A-Smile is an easy print out pictures, color them in and mail them in! Easy as 1,2,3. Color A Smile is a nonprofit organization that distributes cheerful drawings to senior citizens, our troops overseas, and anyone in need of a smile.
2. Freerice https://play.freerice.com/categories/english-vocabulary?level=1
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and building a better future for people driven into hunger by conflict and the impact of climate change. Play fun trivia with the family and earn free rice for communities in need.
3. Create for Kids https://www.createforkids.org/about
Create For Kids, where we use the power of art to bring smiles to hospitalized children. We know that being in a hospital can be tough for kids and their families, which is why we provide a variety of creative activities to make their stay a little brighter
I have personally done these with my family and my kids have loved knowing that their artwork is being sent to make other people's days brighter during this season. So if you are looking for an easy to do, from the comfort of home opportunity to teach kids about giving back and caring about their fellow man, I hope you find these opportunities helpful.
I will surely update you on any new ventures we find as well in the future.
If you are more a hands on, in-person type volunteer hunter, contact your local food shelters, homeless shelters and other local organizations to see where and how you can help fill a need in person.
Best wishes to you and yours this holiday season, and Happy Volunteering!
