The
Values Project
is a year-long initiative designed to equip families to raise children who thrive emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Get inspiration, practical ideas, family activities, and parenting tips from our network of seasoned parents and faith leaders, because it takes a village to raise a good human. Each month we'll explore a different value-like honesty, loyalty, creativity, kindness, and compassion. This week, we are talking about the many ways you can volunteer with your family!
Volunteering with Your Family
As parents, we know that helping those in need in our community is an important aspect to raising faithful and empathetic children.
"God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them." Hebrews 6:10
As parents, we know that helping those in need in our community is an important aspect to raising faithful and empathetic children. But, we also know that volunteering can take a lot of time and effort in our already very busy lives. So, let's look at a few options that allow our families to dip their toes in the water when it comes to volunteering, but doesn't make us feel like we are drowning in too many commitments.
Cleanup Crew
Not only do parks connect neighborhoods and let kids get out of the house but they also help produce lower health care costs. According to,
The Ellison Chair in International Floriculture, "Access to parks and recreational activities is positively correlated with rates of physical activity, which improves mood and contributes to overall healthiness. Health care costs are subsequently reduced." It's official parks help the mind, body, and checkbook. So, call everyone you know! Friends, family, grandma, your plumber, WHOEVER, and get them to join you at a local park for some well-deserved exercise and cleanup time.
Make it Multigenerational
Whether you have a grandparent in the nursing home or not, making cards and dropping them off while visiting with some residents is an easy and fun way to hear some incredible stories. According to research, elderly that spend a few minutes a day with children are less likely to be depressed, while children who also spend time with elderly are more likely to understand and accept their own aging. Both parties will gain much from this experience. So what are you waiting for? Load up the van!
Bonus points if you can get a resident to talk about their favorite childhood memory
!
Read more here
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