With children out of school for summer vacation, you may be looking for ways to keep your kids entertained and busy. Volunteering is the perfect summer pastime—it provides opportunities to do meaningful work, learn new skills, and make new friends.
There are many ways to volunteer and help your community this summer. Here are a few ideas for all ages:
- Create or join a community garden. A community garden is a great way to spend time with your friends and family while sharing food with neighbors.
- Start a trash pick-up initiative. Choose a neighborhood, street, or park to beautify by picking up litter. This will help keep outside clean and is a great service to the community.
- Show neighborly love. If you know someone who is elderly or sick, make a point to visit them once a week to chat, read to them, or help with chores or yard work.
- Check with your local homeless shelter. Many shelters need help serving meals or organizing community drives to collect and sort donations.
- Volunteer with your local animal shelter. Your local animal shelter may need help laundering blankets or taking photos of pets for adoptions.
Remember, small positive changes can make a big difference. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, visit the AmeriCorps website.
Your Employee Assistance Program is Here to Support
For additional assistance locating a volunteer opportunity, contact your Component Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information or for help in contacting your EAP, write to your DHS Work-Life specialists at worklife@hq.dhs.gov.