Getting Started with Simple, Short Projects

Nothing will kill your family’s enthusiasm faster than becoming involved in a project that drains your energy and time. When you find short, easy service projects to do as a family, you’re more likely to feel energized, feel like you’re making a difference, and want to do more.

• Start with projects you can do at home. For example, make cookies to deliver to a homebound neighbor or a grandparent in the hospital; assemble birthday bags to donate to a local food pantry; make blankets for a crisis nursery; or create greeting cards for hospitalized children.
• Consider participating in a project on National Family Volunteer Day (the Saturday before Thanksgiving), or one of the other Seasons of Service days throughout the year. Many communities sponsor special activities on these days, making it easy to get started and to meet other family volunteers.
• It is often much easier to join projects that are already underway. Read newsletters from your school, faith community, workplace, or other networks. They often include invitations to participate in one-time projects, such as a clean-up day or painting. They can be a great way to meet other families that are interested in volunteering.

• Visit Family Cares or Doing Good Together for dozens of practical and creative service ideas for families with children of all ages.

There are many extensive, complicated projects you can work on, but it’s much easier to start with something simple and easy. You can certainly expand your service in the future—but for now, just find something small to introduce your family to volunteering.