What is there for a child to do for community service type things?

[ziggysgrl0724]

So, today the kids saw a segment about the Make~A~Wish Foundation.  My 8 year old son got very upset, and wanted to send the 6 year old boy his newest car.  I explained that while that wasn't possible, there were other ways to help those that are less fortunate, but I honestly can't think of something for a child.  My husband mentioned maybe reading to younger children in the local children's hospital, but I don't even know if that's something that is a regular practice.  Does anyone have ideas?  He so desperately wanted to give something to these children, I want to help him find a way to do so.  Any and all ideas are appreciated.

[peekawho]

Great question!

Try some of these to see if there is anything a child could do.  You could also contact your local church.  Sometimes they know of a family in need--perhaps you and your children could cook a meal together, collect gently worn clothing, clean up a yard for an elderly neighbor, things like that, too.

http://www.volunteermatch.org/

http://www.volunteer.gov/gov/

http://www.1-800-volunteer.org/1800Vol/OpenIndexAction.do

[mysty2001]

My son wanted to give his brand new shoes away when he was four!  I will neer forget that!
I just exposed him to community service as much as I could
By age 8 he went to the soup kitchen with me - untill he was 12 his job was always putting the sugar in the peoples coffee (they can't put their own or they will take too much)

He also has always helped me pick up and deliver groceries to the soup kitchens and food pantries
The food pantries also organize once a month - an eight year old is old enough to sort and look for expiration dates
ALso, don;t forget small scale giving - my son has always raked and shoveled for the elderly for free - he also took his bike (at age 9)  to the library to get and return books for them - they really appreciate this
He has helped plant, mow and weed - all of these things are community service
Good luck

[adgal]

I love reading a post like this. Contact one of your local not for profit agencies.  I work for one and we have had kids do some really neat things.  One little girl  had a birthday party where instead of gifts for herself, had her little friends bring unwrapped gifts to donate to children less fortunate.  She came in with her mom to bring everything in, met a bunch of our children in our family centre, and you could see the impact it had on her.  It was just wonderful.  Many of the adults that volunteer at our dinners for the homeless bring their children to help serve as well.  Some of our local schools get the kids involved with clothing drives, warm coat drives in winter, food bank donations, etc.   It's so wonderful when the children actually accompany parents or teachers to deliver the goods themselves.  I think that's when they really see the good they are doing.  

I really want to commend you on encouraging your son to be aware of those less fortunate.  It is a real testament to you as a parent that he had that kind of reaction.  It think it's wonderful!