You know that volunteering makes this world a better place. You know that there are an infinite number of needs to be filled. And you and your family may know firsthand that helping to do your part to fill these needs can be an extremely rewarding and enriching experience.

If your family has participated in an extremely successful and fun family volunteering event, why not invite others to also take part in the future? You would be surprised how many other families would be interested in helping out – if they are just asked and given the opportunity to contribute.

This is where you come in.

Start with your friends. Share your experience with them. Invite them to come with you. Contributing with your friends often alleviates some of the anxiety families may feel if they haven’t volunteered before. Multiple families working together can make lunches for a homeless shelter, advertise and collect clothing for a donation drive, work on spring cleaning and clean-up projects, and throw great parties for elderly residents living in a care facility.

Think about your children’s schools. Is there a newsletter where you could share your experience? Could you add one of the local events to a listing? Could you arrange an event that would involve the school? (See arranging your own volunteering event).

What about your church or temple? Many have community service activities set up already, and they would love your help recruiting additional families.

Are you a member of any clubs? Do you know families who are involved in your neighborhood association? How about any community leaders who might be able to help spread the word?

The options are endless. By involving others in your volunteer experience, you will not only be helping to strengthen other families, but also creating long-lasting results by strengthening your entire community for the future of your own children.