As a Mom and a supporter of the non-profits community, it’s important for me to show my kids the importance of giving back and how our actions, both large and small, can impact our communities. After working for a Kansas City based non-profit HALO for many years, it became clear that many people contributing a little can go a long way. It’s also a good way to get your kids to think bigger.
We also have mixed our non-profit careers with our family life. My husband is the Founder and Executive Director of Boys Grow. Boys Grow is a youth farming program in Kansas City, Missouri. Teenage boys in Kansas City get hired to work on the farm. In addition to earning a paycheck, they learn important life skills, farming and culinary experience, public speaking and business knowledge. It also serves as a mentorship program and the boys develop a brotherhood and pride in working together to grow food. On the farm my kids get the opportunity to see first hand how the daily effort we make adds up and makes a huge impact. We also get to see how much hard work goes into growing food, and how hard work can result in very sweet results.
Ways to help involve your kids involved in the non-profit community and giving back.
Act of Kindness
Choose one act of kindness to do with your child on a regular basis. This could be daily, weekly or monthly. Whatever you choose. It could be something really simple- like making a meal for someone, petting the cat, helping someone pick up, making a piece of art for someone, sending a little note in the mail. Whatever it is- it’s a good way to get your child thinking about others and expressing compassion and empathy.
Volunteer for a local non-profit together.
There are lots of volunteer opportunities kids can help with. HALO is a Kansas City based non-profit that has a specific opportunity for kids to get involved called ClubHALO. Lots of other non-profits offer youth & adult volunteer opportunities and will cater to your schedule and availability.
Donate gently used toys, clothes and supplies that kids no longer play with.
Involve your kids in picking out toys that they no longer need or want. Letting them know they can brighten someone else’s day by sharing them with someone in need.
Collect school supplies, art supplies or other needed supplies and donate to local charities.
Many charities will list out high need items and drop off locations and times, making it super simple to contribute.
Support local businesses- when choosing to buy something from a big box store, chain or online meca vs. a locally owned business
Teach your little ones to choose the locally owned business. Let them come in the shop with you and they may even get to meet the owner. Explain to them the difference between a chain and a locally owned shop and how making even small purchases can make a difference.
Get kids out of their comfort zone by trying out new activities, outings and events.
Bringing your kids to a local farm to pick fruit or see where their food comes from is a great way to expand their horizon if it’s an experience they’ve never had before.
About The Author
Lacy Gordon is a Mom and photographer at Photostreamkc. Motherhood helps her better navigate the challenges of photographing little ones in family photo shoots, and also fuels her passion for capturing special moments, especially candid moments that include Moms. You can find her here.