Teaching children about the importance of community and charitable giving is one of the most valuable life lessons a family can share. By volunteering together, families can create lasting memories, strengthen their bond, and foster a sense of gratitude and empathy in their children.
In a city as rich in culture and community spirit as New Orleans, there are numerous opportunities for families to give back and make a difference. Here are some local organizations where families can volunteer together and explore the financial and emotional benefits of charitable giving.
Why Volunteer as a Family?
Volunteering as a family is more than just giving your time; it’s about instilling values and creating teachable moments for your children. Here are some benefits:
- Emotional Growth: Volunteering helps children develop empathy, compassion, and an appreciation for what they have.
- Life Skills: Activities like serving meals, organizing donations, or planting trees teach kids teamwork, problem-solving, and responsibility.
- Financial Awareness: Introducing kids to the concept of charitable giving—whether through time, money, or resources—helps them understand the importance of managing money to support causes they care about.
Local Volunteer Opportunities in New Orleans
Second Harvest Food Bank
- What They Do: Provide meals and groceries to those in need across South Louisiana.
- Age Requirement: Children as young as 8 can volunteer with parental supervision.
- Contact: Second Harvest Food Bank
Habitat for Humanity New Orleans
- What They Do: Build and repair homes for low-income families.
- Age Requirement: Varies by activity, but many opportunities are available for kids 10 and older.
- Contact: Habitat for Humanity New Orleans
Grow Dat Youth Farm
- What They Do: Promote sustainable farming and youth development.
- Age Requirement: Kids of all ages are welcome to participate with adult supervision.
- Contact: Grow Dat Youth Farm
SPCA of Louisiana
- What They Do: Care for and find homes for animals in need.
- Age Requirement: Children as young as 10 can volunteer with a parent.
- Contact: SPCA of Louisiana
NOLA Tree Project
- What They Do: Plant and care for trees to restore New Orleans’ green spaces.
- Age Requirement: Open to all ages with supervision for younger children.
- Contact: NOLA Tree Project
Tips for Getting Started
As you start investigating volunteer opportunities, remember that it’s important to keep things simple and meaningful. Choose activities that match your children’s abilities and interests to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. Discuss the experience before and after volunteering, encouraging your kids to share what they learned and how it made them feel. Incorporate giving into your family’s budget by setting aside funds for charitable donations or volunteer project supplies. Most importantly, aim to make volunteering a consistent tradition, whether it’s monthly or tied to special holidays, to create lasting habits and memories.
New Orleans’ vibrant culture and spirit of resilience make it a wonderful place to engage in meaningful volunteer opportunities. By contributing your time and resources to local organizations, your family can create a lasting impact while learning the true value of giving back.