By Christy Piña
Whether you are feeding the homeless, taking care of some pups or preparing toys to give to families during the holidays, volunteering is one of the most productive and thoughtful ways you can spend your time. While a lot of places only accept older volunteers, there are a few organizations that allow for you to volunteer with your children, teaching them early on how valuable of an experience it is. Here are four family volunteer opportunities right here in Alachua County!
4205 NW 6th Street, Gainesville, FL, 32609
Within the humane society, there’s a variety of volunteer teams of which people can be a part. Volunteers can work directly with the animals, assist with the thrift store and help at events. There is no minimum age for volunteers, but the humane society does require that anyone under 16 be accompanied by an adult.
430-B North Main Street, Gainesville, FL, 32601
Friends of the Library accepts book donations year-round from families across the county for their semi-annual book sales. Volunteers at any age can help sort, price and arrange the books for those sales.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida
1600 SW 14th Street, Gainesville, FL, 32608
Apart from the Youth Volunteer Program at Ronald McDonald, if you want to volunteer as a family, you can host a special family activity for a family living in the house. You can also prepare meals or sweets in the house’s kitchen.
United Way of North Central Florida – Toys for Tots
6031 NW 1st Place, Gainesville, FL, 32607
While Toys for Tots only takes place during the holiday season, it is an excellent way to get your family to give back. Together, you will distribute toys to children in need who may not get any otherwise.
So, this weekend, if you have time, get your family up and volunteering. It is an amazing, worthwhile experience, and a great way to teach your kids about the importance of giving back to their community.