Volunteering lets you spend some QT with the kids and do good too. But let's face it, finding ways that kids can actually participate that's not just raising money or donating old toys can be tough. We've tracked down 12 options for families to volunteer together, from cooking to building to reading to pets. So don't just say you want to help your community. Get out there and do it.
1. Food Banks: Help sort, package, or distribute food at your local food bank
2. Meals on Wheels: Take on a route and help serve meals to those in need
3. Letters for Soldiers: Write letters, cards, or notes of support to our active duty military personnel
4. Cook for Families: Make dinner for Ronald McDonald house guests in your local community
5. Animal Shelters: Read to dogs, visit with cats, or foster an animal in your home
6. Trash Pickup: Join a community litter clean-up event, adopt a section of sidewalk, road or beach, or bring a bag on your next walk around the neighborhood
7. Plant Trees: Get your hands dirty and green up your town by planting trees
8. Visit the Elderly: Reach out to local assisted living facilities or senior centers, stop by and read a story, do a puzzle, or just spend some time
9. Habitat for Humanity: Contact your local chapter to see how your family can get involved — from building to cooking meals, there are options for all ages and abilities
10. Little Free Library: Join the movement and build your own LFL, then stock it with your overflowing bookshelf or yard sale finds
11. Locks of Love: Turn that next haircut into an act of generosity and donate it to make wigs for kids with hair loss
12. Project Linus: Make no-sew fleece blankets to donate to kids in need
