“It is not enough for people to simply give or share what they have enough of. We all must give more; in a sense, we must give until it hurts a little. Only then does it become charity, and only then will we be rewarded.” (Mother Theresa)

Homeschooling provides the perfect opportunity for giving service and volunteering in the community. We all know that the best way for children to learn anything is by example. With the extra time that families have together during what would normally be school hours, parents can arrange for opportunities to serve as a family, giving the children not only a chance to serve, but to see their parents giving and serving as well.

Volunteering can provide children with new experiences and help develop their self-confidence and a sense of gratitude. It can also help them learn to understand – rather than fear – those who are different, as they meet – and learn from – a variety of people in the community.

Here are a few tips for making the best of your family volunteer efforts:

1. Begin by calling various organizations in your area to see what opportunities are available. Ask friends and neighbors, too. Try calling clubs, shelters, hospitals, food banks, libraries, and the local Parks and Recreation. You may be surprised at how many opportunities (and needs) there are.

2. Ask in advance whether families are welcome to participate. Some organizations welcome families, but others would prefer that only adults or perhaps older children participate.

3. As often as you can, decide together what volunteering efforts the family will participate in. Narrow down the choices yourself, then present the best options for the family to choose from. Children who agree (even reluctantly) on a project will have a much better attitude and experience. If they are just assigned a project, their resentment could make it difficult for them to gain anything from the experience.

4. Give it a trial run before making a commitment. Just because a project sounds perfect for your family, doesn’t necessarily mean it will be.

5. Ask your family for their ideas. You don’t always have to participate in already-available community projects. Family members may be aware of needs in the community that aren’t being met and want to start up their own projects. These projects could be for just your family to work on, or may be ongoing community projects involving many people. Brainstorm together and see what you can come up with.

6. Search online for projects. There are countless sites on the web asking for help with various projects, from sewing school bags to putting together personal care kits. Many of these projects are simple enough for younger children to help with in some way. Remember to never give money to an organization that you have not thoroughly checked out in advance, whether the organization is on the web or not.

7. Be realistic. If your schedule is already stretched to the limit, don’t commit your family to working four hours a day at the local animal shelter. Yes, giving should be a sacrifice, but if you overdo it you may burn out quickly and not be able to serve at all.

8. Don’t just bring the children, involve them. Even if a child can do nothing more than hand you items that you need for a project, he/she should participate in some way. They will gain so much more by helping than just watching. You’ll be able to see the difference on their faces.

9. Be certain that the help you plan to give is truly needed and wanted. Just because you think someone would appreciate something, doesn’t mean they will. Some people prefer their privacy or would be uncomfortable accepting help. Always ask – don’t assume.

10.You don’t have to think big to be helpful. You may wish to start out with small projects, especially if your children are very young. For example, you could go out once a week and do a small act of kindness, such as sweeping a neighbor’s walkway together, baking cookies for someone “just because,” or picking up litter in the park (don’t forget the gloves!). Small things lead to great things, and help form good habits. Your children may just become addicted to giving service!

Bio: Alice E. Workman is a freelance writer and the mother of four children. She has been homeschooling for about six years. Her recent book, TOGETHER TIME! More than 150 Family Activities that are TV Free and Budget Friendly, includes a large section on service and volunteering activities for families.