Raising a generous generation

BY HUNTER HARRELL

trong communities are built by individuals who recognize the importance of giving back. Young people recognize when their parents give back to their communities, and often that compels some children to want to do the same. By volunteering as a family, parents can instill philanthropic values in their children while strengthening the communities they live in.

Giving back also provides a host of additional, potentially surprising benefits. For example, studies have shown that volunteering decreases rates of depression and anxiety. In addition, research has indicated that adolescents who volunteer may perform better at school and take a more positive approach to education.

With a little creative thinking, parents can help their children get involved and engage in service projects. Here are some simple ways that families can make a difference in their neighborhoods together. • FEED THE HUNGRY: Charitable organizations that feed those in need were crucial during the pandemic. The economic fallout was significant, as tens of millions of people lost their jobs and, subsequently, their ability to feed themselves and their families. Local food banks stepped in to feed those families, and organizations are always in need of volunteers to help prepare, deliver and serve food. Volunteering at a local food bank or soup kitchen is a great way for parents to show their children that they have a lot to be thankful for while instilling in them a sense of responsibility to community members in need. • CREATE ART: Art can be as beneficial to its creators as it is for those who appreciate it. That’s especially so for children in relation to their development. According to a report from Americans for the Arts, art education strengthens problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Art also encourages kids to innovate, a benefit that will pay dividends

Sthroughout their lives. Art also is fun to create, and parents can turn a natural inclination toward fun and creativity into a way to give back to their communities. Consider distributing cheerful cards and drawings to senior citizens and overseas troops, among others. Adults and children can bring smiles to the faces of strangers, all the while reaping the many benefits of engaging in art projects. • COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP: Local cleanups help to keep the great outdoors pristine and pollution-free. Such clean-ups, which are a fun way to get outdoors, also provide a great opportunity for parents to teach children about the environment and the importance of protecting it. Get involved by picking up litter from parks, streets and other public grounds. Go beyond just removing trash. Organize a planting event or remove brush and weeds as well.

• PARTICIPATE IN A “WALK” OR “RUN.”

Walks or runs are popular events for nonprofit fundraising in which participants register and solicit pledges tied to their performances. Families with children may be able to do a walk or run as a group to raise funds for local charities and raise money for a good cause.

• FORM UNLIKELY FRIENDSHIPS.

Socializing with a senior at a nursing home, a child in the hospital or even a kid who is new to the neighborhood is another way to get involved. Companionship can be a great gift for lonely or isolated individuals, and connecting with others is always great way to experience personal growth. • COLLECT FUNDS. For those that want to donate to make a difference, children can learn the joy of charitable giving by starting small. Keep a change collection jar at home and toss change from shopping excursions or coins they may find while out and about in the community. When the jar is filled, cash in the coins and donate to a charity of their choosing. Whether it’s helping those in need, exploring one’s inner artist or helping keep local parks clean, the opportunities for families to give back together are abundant.