Kids in Service

We led another Volunteer Camp for fourteen 2nd-6th grade girls at Harpeth Hall School last week. It was so much fun watching them enjoy the opportunity to serve others and learn so much about the community/themselves! Service-learning is such a powerful way to help young people build more assets in their lives.

You could these ideas with children/youth in your family/church/organization, if you are looking for a way to get involved in your community. Children are so eager to make a difference in the world - and they have so much energy to do it! I'd love to hear if you use any of these ideas - or if you have your own ideas for service. :)

Here's an excerpt from the letter I sent to parents, describing the week's events:

Mon 6/23 – CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
We will visit Warner Parks to learn about taking care of the environment and help do our part to keep the park a beautiful place. Then we'll make jewelry – from recycled materials – to take home with us. Come ready to explore and have a great time on the wild side of Nashville.

Tues 6/24 – CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS
We will visit older adults in the daycare program at Senior Citizens Inc. You will fall in love with this sweet folks as we have summertime fun together. Then we will take time to thank the older adults in our lives that have been an encouragement to us.

Wed 6/25 - CARING FOR THE SICK AND THEIR FAMILIES
We will visit Ronald McDonald House, learn how they serve others, help with house beautification projects, and encourage the residents with creative gifts of cards and homemade playdough. Then we'll think about ways we can help sick or hurting people in our own lives.

Thurs 6/26 - - CARING FOR ANIMALS
We will visit to the Williamson County Animal Shelter to play with the animals, learn about the Paws on Wheels Program (partners with Meals on Wheels), and what we can do to help our furry neighbors safe. Then we'll use recycled towels and tshirts to make toys for the animals at the shelter.

Fri 6/27 – CARING FOR PEOPLE IN POVERTY
We will visit the Freedom Recovery Community, a safe place for women and children in crisis situations. We will learn about ways to support people in crisis and we will make special gifts for children in their center.