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Tis better to give than to receive, or so we tell our kids. But as parents, we know that practicing what we preach will instill a lesson
that sticks with little hearts and minds for a lifetime. Serving others not only teaches practical life skills and develops empathy,
but it can also be a whole lot of fun. Give your kids the chance to help, and they’ll see that calling it the “Season of Giving” isn’t just
lip service. These organizations are more than happy to welcome your family for one day or on an ongoing basis. Many will require signed waivers for children under 18, even when accompanied by a parent. Others have specific age requirements or need RSVPs.
Check ahead, and make plans today!

HANDS ON GREATER PORTLAND

Hands on Greater Portland is ready and waiting to connect your family to an array of volunteer opportunities. Each entry lists
an appropriate minimum age, and activities marked “Good for Kids” are designed to be safe and fun for kiddos to do with adults.
Even toddlers can get into the action, as 1-year-olds can create a love letter for a senior. Kids four and up can make care packages or sort supplies with help from their parents.

Check out the “Volunteer With Your Kids” page on their website for more ideas on how to volunteer with your family and make
a difference in our community.
handsonportland.org

OREGON FOOD BANK

The holidays are a time when many of us celebrate or show love with food. While we’re thinking about eating a second slice of pie, or worrying about how to fit all the leftovers in the fridge, too many local families are struggling to keeping everyone
fed. Kids six and older can help re-package food for distribution at the Oregon Food Bank’s facilities in Beaverton and Northeast
Portland. Your little (and not-so-little) ones will learn about food systems, waste, and helping others at the same time. Some of the food re-packing is kept cold to preserve the goods. Wear clothes that will keep you warm as you move around
in 50-degree temperatures. Maybe you’ll get the added benefit of exercise, not to mention fun.  oregonfoodbank.org

FRIENDS OF TREES

Get a lesson in ecology and make the air cleaner for your community by helping to plant trees in a neighborhood or park. Friends of Trees will bring breakfast snacks, coffee for you, and hot chocolate for the kids. Tools and gloves are also provided, so all you need to bring is appropriate weather gear, “sturdy shoes” and a good attitude. Friends of Trees doesn’t just plant seedlings. They also help keep established trees healthy by organizing regular “ivy pulls” to remove invasive English ivy from local parks
and trails.
Looking for a unique gift or a way to memorialize a loved one? Donate a gift tree. All gift trees are planted in the Collins
Sanctuary in Forest Park. You’re welcome to plant it yourself, or Friends of Trees will do the dirty work on your behalf.
friendsoftrees.org

BLANCHET HOUSE

Serving food to others can show your kids that not everyone has the same privileges that they do. Teach them early the joy
that can come from serving others and treating everyone with dignity. Kids eight years and older can help plate the food
at Blanchet House, serve to guests, bus tables, or keep beverages filled. Make it a regular date, or just volunteer one time.
All volunteers are welcome to stay and eat after the meal service. The Blanchet House has a large pool of volunteers, so reserve your desired date early. Shifts are available for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Monday through Saturday.
blanchethouse.org

CHILDREN’S BOOK BANK

Books really are the gift that keeps on giving. Children who are exposed to books at a young age not only read those beloved stories over and over, but studies show that early reading can spur brain development such as language skills, logical thinking, and concentration. The Children’s Book Bank thinks every child deserves to be surrounded by books, regardless of financial means, so they collect used books, clean them up, and re-distribute to children and families in need, with the help of volunteers, of course.
Kids as young as 4-years-old can join a family volunteer night, “sprucing up” donated titles by wiping off dust and grime left by previous sticky fingers. Older kids can learn organizational skills by leading a book drive, or your little tailors can make and donate tote bags. Check their website for instructions. childrensbookbank.org

Looking for a different project for your kids to tackle during the holidays?

• Set up a clothing, coat, or food drive
• Visit a nursing home or assisted living center
• Pick up litter in your local park (with gloves and supervised, please)
• Donate old toys
• Make cards for military members serving overseas