One of our Facebook fans recently shared this inspiring quote from Gandhi with us: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

Here at the Community Foundation, we’ve been reflecting on this quote for the last few days because it is so powerful and true. Take a moment to think about the times when you have given your time, energy, and support to serve others: aren’t those moments some of your most rewarding and fulfilling? As parents, we have the opportunity to share that experience with our children.

One of our Facebook fans recently shared this inspiring quote from Gandhi with us: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

Here at the Community Foundation, we’ve been reflecting on this quote for the last few days because it is so powerful and true. Take a moment to think about the times when you have given your time, energy, and support to serve others: aren’t those moments some of your most rewarding and fulfilling? As parents, we have the opportunity to share that experience with our children.

A great way to make concepts like giving, sharing, and serving tangible for your kids is letting them volunteer. This might not seem like an easy task: your family’s schedule is busy; your preteen has no desire to give up her Saturday; you’re not sure where or how to start. The key is to find a nonprofit organization that’s a good match for your family’s interests. Then, pick a day and go for it. The reward of watching your children experience the joy of giving to others is matchless.

Here a few ideas to give you a head start:

1. Visit a veteran’s home, offer to interview them about their lives, take pictures of them and post on a bulletin board in a common area.
2. Make meals or volunteer at Columbia’s Ronald McDonald House, a home that support families while their loved ones are being treated in hospitals.
3. Volunteer with our local Special Olympics committee or at a Special Olympics event.
4. Partner with another family to repair or paint the home of an elderly couple or a needy family.
5. Organize a one-day adoption fair with one of Columbia’s animal shelters at a convenient in-town location.
6. Participate in a brush-clearing hiking trip to help keep South Carolina State Park trails in good condition.
7. Host a birthday party for nursing home residents.
8. Call up your favorite nonprofit and ask how your family can help. Nonprofits almost always need volunteers.

Before you start planning, call the nonprofit or group you wish to help and discuss your idea or the opportunity to confirm its child friendly. We’d love to hear about your summer efforts!