Tips For Encouragin (NAPSA)—When it comes to Children To Volunteer g PP Pe ea e volunteering, America’s young heh. J . ES fF ane people are all business. Fifty-five percent of U.S. teenagers volunteered in just one year, according to a report from Reeseracts vom the Corporation for National & Community Service. Additionally, the group says that community service in U.S. schools has reached a new high, as 68 percent of oe kindergarten through 12th-grade schools now offer or recognize service opportunities for students. And as more youngsters continue to get involved, it’s not just people in need who benefit. Experts say helping others can Neeere offer young people a host of rewards, from a stronger sense of community to improved selfesteem. Plus, volunteering can help bulk up a college application or a rsum. So how can you encourage your children to volunteer? Try thesetips: Get Involved It seems charity really does begin at home. The Corporation for National & Community Service says that nearly nine out of 10 young people who give their time have parents and siblings who also volunteer. Find ways to help the community and children will likely follow your lead. Consider having a monthly “family day of service” when the whole household picks a cause to support, or setting an annual fam- ily fundraising goal for a specific charity. The key is to keep it fun and to keep everyone involved. Follow Their Interests Ask your children which causes might be of greatest interest to them. They’ll be more likely to fully commit to volunteering if it’s in an area they care about. If your i ~sal i | Ul “ j > yr. i 4 | } a 1 | W! fe! | J CTs) a jo Young people of all ages and abilities have ‘made a difference in their communities. daughter’s an animal lover, for instance, she might want to help raise moneyfor an area zoo or rescue shelter. If your son loves sports, he might enjoy organizing an area park cleanupor,if he’s old enough, helping out a local youth team. Clean House Encourage your children to give old toys, games and other items that they no longer use to charity. Then ask kids to help you do the same. Root through dresser drawers and closets together to find old clothing you might give away. Doing so can be a fun way to spend time with your children as you makea difference. Added Benefits Work with your children to find ways to make volunteering even more rewarding. For instance, the Build-A-Bear Workshop Huggable Heroes program recognizes young people between the ages of 8 and 18 who give back in their commu- nities and beyond. Youngsters are rewarded with scholarships, charitable contributions, networking opportunities and leadership training. Kids can also host a charity bear-making party at one of the company’s stores. The animals they make can be donated to an area hospital, or children can make one of several special stuffed animals to help support important causes including animal shelters, the World Wildlife Fund, children’s literacy initiatives, and children’s health and wellness programs. To nominate someonefor the Huggable Heroes program, visit www.buildabear.com/huggableher oes or pick up an entry form at a Build-A-Bear Workshop store. Entries will be accepted through February 26.
