Zoey Albright, a Las Vegas mother, was determined that her boys, ages 7, 10 and 12, put aside their baseball mitts and Legos for part of the summer and get a taste of community service.  She and her sons decided that because they missed spending time with their grandparents, who lived out of town, they wanted to try volunteering with seniors.  The first nursing home Albright called wasn't interested in young volunteers.  Then she found Vegas Valley, which welcomed her offer of some weekly company.  On their first visit, Albright's kids were terrified.  They had never spent time with people who were old or sick, and they reacted in horror when they saw a catheter bag strapped to a wheelchair.  The kids whispered, "Oh, Mom, this is so gross!" as one of the residents dropped food on himself.  "Their initial reaction was to stick to me like glue," says Albright.        

But she persevered, explaining to her sons the importance of respecting others despite their physical limitations.  She also gave them practical suggestions for communicating with the residents.  By the end of the summer, a transformation had occurred.  The boys were off on their own, visiting room after room, reading to the residents, assisting in bingo games and pushing wheelchairs. Later they announced that volunteering had been the summer's highlight. 

Getting Started 

Getting started in family volunteering isn't always easy.  Finding a cause that appeals to every member of the family, locating an organization that welcomes kids, and preparing children for the challenges of volunteering takes thoughtful consideration and legwork.  

Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. Rally all your would-be volunteers to help select the volunteer opportunity.  The more engaged everyone is in choosing, the more committed all of you will be to the project.  Kids, especially younger ones, may need help articulating their ideas and opinions as you discuss family volunteering.  Ask questions and listen carefully to what they have to say.  If your children seem overwhelmed by all the discussion, you may need to talk with them alone to draw out more honest responses.  
  2. Decide whether your family wants to make an ongoing volunteer commitment (deliver meals to the homebound twice each month, for example) or get involved in a one-time activity (such as walking to raise money for Alzheimer's disease).  One great way to begin is by taking on some "kitchen table" service projects (http://www.doinggoodtogether.org/index.php/dgt/kitchen-table-activities/) that you can do right from home.  In any case, it's usually best to start small and then increase your participation if you're all enjoying yourselves and have additional time and energy.
  3. Consider your children's ages.  Some activities might be too difficult for younger kids because they require a long attention span, higher-level skills, or emotional maturity.  If you're uncertain about whether your children can handle a particular job, visit the agency and speak with the volunteer coordinator.  But remember, families can design volunteer participation for any age child.  Even babies can take part in nursing home visits or charity walks.  
  4. Think about your family's talents, personalities, interests, and the issues you all find important.  Is your family active and physically fit? Maybe that could point to park service work or an outdoor environmental project.  Is your teenage daughter skilled at working with children?  This may suggest volunteering at a crisis nursery or mentoring a young boy or girl.  Also consider your family's personalities.  If your preschooler is outgoing and affectionate, she'd probably enjoy spending time at a nursing home.  A shyer child might be happier with a more behind-the-scenes job.  Consider, too, what you'd like to learn from the experience.
  5. Don't necessarily limit yourself to more traditional volunteer jobs.  Your family can become environmental activists, work for human rights, or help get out the vote.  You can host a fundraiser, organize a collection, or start a neighborhood garden.  The possibilities are endless.
  6. Find dozens of volunteer opportunities for your family at Doing Good Together (www.doinggoodtogether.org), Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org), your faith community, or your local volunteer center. 
  7. Consider an organization carefully before you and your children decide to volunteer there.  Find out the group's goal or mission, how it's funded, and exactly what your job will be.  Find out about the working conditions.  (If you have small children, consider whether there is a bathroom and water supply readily available).  Ask if you'd work with other volunteers.  Also, be prepared for an interview or training time.  You may be asked to fill out an application and describe your qualifications or background.  A background check might also be required.  If possible, ask a current or past volunteer about the pros and cons of working there.  After doing your legwork, take some time to choose the opportunity that's right for your family.  It's not necessary to go with the first place you see, but if you find a project that excites your family, go for it!
  8. Before beginning the volunteer job, explain to your children what will happen, how they're expected to behave, and why the job is important.  Once you get started, be patient with their efforts and let them know how they're making a difference.
  9. Reflect on the experience with your family, including the disappointments and challenges of the work.  Educate your kids about any issues that arise, explain the benefits to the people you're serving and discuss what all of you are learning from the experience. 
  10. Have fun.  Show enthusiasm for the project, go out for lunch afterward, or invite your children's friends to come along.  The more all of you enjoy the time you spend volunteering together, the more often you'll make it a priority.