Cute puppies anxiously await playmates at shelters around the U.S.
Volunteering can build a child's character, help him become a generous person, and increase interest in community service. There are many volunteer opportunities that are fun and rewarding. Kids can volunteer at animal shelters, museums, and soup kitchens.
Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
Working with animals may teach children about compassion, contributing to society, and respecting nature. Children who are fond of animals may enjoy volunteering at an animal shelter. Cats, dogs, and other domesticated animals awaiting adoption need to be petted, played with and shown a little love. Some of the things that children can do to help animals include adopting a pet or providing foster care to puppies, cleaning around the shelter, grooming and washing small animals, or passing out pamphlets about the local animal shelters. If a child is unable to help at an animal shelter, she can still volunteer to by taking part in a cat or dog food drive, collecting toys, or helping to make animal crafts to sell and donating the money to an animal shelter.
Museums
Local art and history museums often need people to assist with various activities throughout the day. Children can learn about museum exhibits and volunteer to help. They can participate in cleaning, decorating for a new exhibition, helping younger children with art projects, being a tour guide for other children, and other activities. Some museums also offer opportunities for children to volunteer in the gift shop, give pamphlets to people entering the museum, and provide information to guests at the front desk.
Serving at a Soup Kitchen
Each day, millions of Americans go without food, including children and adults. Many people needing meals at soup kitchens are not homeless. They may live on insufficient unemployment, disability, or pension checks. Having children help someone who is less fortunate teaches them be compassionate and understanding of others. Children can serve and package meals, build communication skills by talking with the recipients, set and clean tables, wash dishes, help with food preparation, and make desserts. Shelters have flexible work schedules and are always looking for helping hands.
Tags: animal shelter, animal shelters, children help, soup kitchens