Raising Kind Kids: How family volunteering inspires lifelong giving

By Katie Bolinger

As mimics, children often mirror the behavior of their elders, so parents play a crucial role in fostering a child’s desire to give back. Children who see their parents actively volunteering are more likely to follow suit. Leading by example helps kids grow into compassionate, engaged adults who continue contributing to their communities.

Volunteering as a family is a powerful way to bring families closer together while teaching values like empathy, responsibility, and kindness. When kids volunteer, they feel accomplished, build life skills, and deepen their connection to the community.
Activities like park cleanups, food drives, or charity events allow families to work together and make a meaningful impact. Making it part of family traditions, such as participating in the Dan Gibbons 5K Turkey Trot, which raises funds to help eradicate hunger in DuPage County, reinforces the importance of giving back and creates lasting memories.

Finding volunteer opportunities that align with children’s ages and interests is essential. Younger kids might enjoy hands-on tasks like packing food boxes. At the same time, older children or teens may prefer working at animal shelters, participating in environmental projects, or volunteering at the library. Matching a child’s hobbies with volunteer work makes the experience more engaging and rewarding.
Taylor Stirmell, Community Program Manager at Giving DuPage, started volunteering at 15 after an injury ended her sports career. She found fulfillment in giving back and camaraderie with other volunteers. “The best part of volunteering,” Stirmell says, “is that while pursuing your interests, you may find your passion.”

Making volunteering enjoyable is key to keeping kids engaged. Giving DuPage offers a volunteer portal to help families find opportunities that fit their schedules, interests, and abilities. By starting small, parents can instill a love of volunteering that lasts a lifetime, benefiting both the child and the community they serve.

To learn more and set up a volunteer account, visit givingdupage.org.