Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums General Discussion Volunteer opportunities for our young ones

Frugalmom, paying it forward is such a cool idea! We also do the toys for tots. Like you said it is so easy to part with money but so much harder for us to give our time to others. I really would like to get dd to be actively involved in giving so she can feel the happiness it brings.

Indigo, really good point. Nothing like rejection to put a damper on all your lofty ideas. The one I signed up for actually specifically asked for children.

Kelly0523, I have seen the three part jars you mention and was thinking of getting one for dd. better to start young with healthy financial habits. Animal shelter is a nice idea. While I am not an animal person, dd sure is. She is so naturally at home with animals. I used to sponsor a kid for 7 years before I learnt some things about the organization that upset me and left a bad taste. I have not found another one yet.

Colinsmum, I agree that you have to do a lot of research before trusting some of these organizations. It is sad but true. My sister works with underprivileged kids and I usually ask her opinion on what is worthy of our donations.

Squishy, sounds like you have caring gentle souls. The world does need more like our kids. Dd is sensitive and we can't/haven't finished watching any Disney movie due to the villain element in them. While I think that one must see the suffering firsthand to really understand it, I agree this is not the right age. Once she has more emotional maturity, I plan to let her shadow my sister as she does her work. Boy did that open my eyes and leave an indelible mark on me. I LOVE and admire my sister for all that she does.

Aquinas, I have been giving to UNICEF for more than a decade now. I should see if they have any volunteer opportunities for kids. The reading idea is awesome but I am afraid dd won't do it. She is still unsure about her reading skills and I will have to wait till she feels like she has mastered it before she reads to others.

Is there an organization that addresses an issue that affects someone in the family or someone close to her? My older two did some fundraising for the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation as their younger sister had a large birthmark that required two surgeries (and really needs one more, if DD9 would agree to it - a subject for another thread).

Our church puts together emergency kits for people displaced by natural disaster-- a large baggie with washcloth, soap, toothbrush, etc. I have found this to be an excellent and safe "first charity" project.

We live in a small rural town surrounded by somewhat larger bedroom communities.

Our area usually provides opportunity via "giving trees". For instance, our local grocery has a tree that benefits children within our own hometown. Yes, in the store.

That same grocery also provides means to give money to the fire department to supply food to those in our hometown that need it most.

Another way we expose our son to giving is through his school. They work with the kids to find shut-in individuals to sing Christmas carols to, as well as deliver needed items.

Don't forget your local animal shelter! They depend upon the generosity of the community and offer opportunities to volunteer...not just once a year, but ongoing; what the true spirit of volunteerism is about.

My daughter also volunteers. She works at the Library and loves it! Everyone should volunteer!