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Health & Fitness

Engage Your Children In Volunteering

Parents can be great role models for teaching children how to engage in acts of kindness.

By Stacey and Randy Getz
Stacey is the Chair of the Jewish Volunteer Connection’s Family Committee

YOU ARE YOUR CHILD'S ROLE MODEL!  As a parent, sometimes I've realized that fact a little too late--like when I drive a tad too fast or maybe don't give someone the benefit of the doubt. I'd like to think though, that my positive influences on my children outweigh those transgressions.

One area where my husband and I attempt to set a positive example is in making it a priority to help those who are less fortunate and trying to treat others as kindly as possible. There are lots of ways to do that, and we want our children to know that these values are important lifelong goals.

The Jewish concepts of "Tikkun Olam,” repairing the world and making it a better place, and "Derech Eretz,” the idea that we should try to follow a proper course in dealing with others, are the ideal.

On a daily basis we have many opportunities to do small acts of kindness, whether it is saying please and thank you, holding the door open for someone, lending a hand, giving a compliment or a number of other things often taken for granted.  We as individuals have the opportunity to make the day a little brighter and a little easier for others we encounter during our day. 
 
Volunteering is another way to make a difference. There are so many opportunities to lend a helping hand – from making food for the Hannah More Homeless shelter in Reisterstown like families did on a recent Sunday to JVC's Mitzvah Makers or visiting the elderly at local nursing homes. There are so many meaningful activities for those that need our help.

We continue to learn how we can make a difference. And, the interesting thing is, these activities probably make us feel as good as the recipients.

Now as parents, we are watching our children contribute to their communities--at school, on the athletic fields, at Mitzvah Makers  programs, participating in Camp Tzedek, and with their peers and friends. 

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Being involved with JVC has enhanced my family’s volunteerism. We hope you will join us on our journey.

Learn how your family can volunteer. Go to jvcbaltimore.org.

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