Easy Ways for Families with School-Age Children to Volunteer Over the Holidays

The holiday season is a wonderful time for families to come together and give back to the community. Involving children in volunteering not only instills values of kindness and empathy but also helps them develop a sense of social responsibility early on. For families with school-age kids, here are some simple and rewarding ways to make a positive impact during the holidays. 

1. Create Care Packages for the Homeless

Many organizations accept care packages with essential items like socks, gloves, toiletries, and snacks. Assembling these kits together as a family can be both fun and educational. Encourage kids to think about what someone without a home might need to stay warm and healthy during the winter. Local shelters or community centers often accept these packages and may even have specific items they need, so be sure to check first!

2. Host a Food Drive in Your Neighborhood

With holiday breaks often leaving food-insecure families in greater need, running a small food drive is a great way to support local food banks. Kids can help spread the word by making flyers, helping sort donated food, and packing items for delivery. By working together, your family can make a direct impact on families in need this season.

3. Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Animal shelters often need extra help during the holidays, and spending time with animals can be particularly rewarding for kids. Many shelters offer family-friendly volunteering opportunities, like walking dogs, cleaning enclosures, or playing with adoptable pets. It’s an excellent way for kids to build compassion for animals while having fun.

4. Write Holiday Cards for Seniors or Hospital Patients

This activity is perfect for younger children who enjoy crafting and drawing. Many nursing homes and hospitals welcome holiday cards that brighten residents’ days. As a family, set up a card-making station at home, then mail the finished cards to local nursing homes, VA hospitals, or children’s hospitals. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.

5. Help with a Community Clean-Up

Sometimes, giving back can be as simple as tidying up your local park or playground. Grab some gloves, bags, and a few other neighborhood families, and spend a few hours cleaning up together. Not only does this benefit the entire community, but it also teaches kids the importance of environmental stewardship.

6. Donate Gently Used Toys and Clothes

Before the holidays bring new toys and clothes, set aside time with your kids to go through gently used items they’ve outgrown. Talk about the importance of sharing with others and the joy these items could bring to another child. Local charities, shelters, and thrift stores often welcome these donations, especially during the holiday season.

7. Bake Cookies or Make Meals for Neighbors in Need

Baking treats or cooking simple meals can be a lovely way to show care for neighbors, especially elderly or homebound community members. Kids can help by decorating cookies or assembling meal kits, and you can deliver them as a family. This activity is a festive way to teach children about kindness and generosity.

8. Participate in a Charity Fun Run or Walk

Many cities host holiday-themed charity runs or walks that raise funds for various causes. These events often have shorter courses designed for kids, making them accessible and enjoyable for the whole family. Check local events, and enjoy spending time together while supporting a good cause!

9. Sponsor a Family or Donate to a Giving Tree Program

Programs that allow families to sponsor another family in need are available through many churches and community organizations. You and your children can help choose gifts for another family or provide essentials for children in need. Many stores also host Giving Trees with tags listing items needed by local families, and kids can help pick out these items and make deliveries.

10. Visit or Donate to a Local Shelter with Handmade Holiday Decorations

For those who enjoy crafting, homemade decorations can bring holiday cheer to community shelters and hospitals. Spend an afternoon making festive crafts, like paper snowflakes, ornaments, or garlands, and bring these decorations to a local shelter or community center that could use some holiday spirit.

Get Started and Make It Meaningful!

Getting your family involved in holiday volunteering doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important part is the impact these activities have on your children, fostering values of empathy, kindness, and gratitude. By dedicating time to small acts of service, your family can make the holiday season brighter for those in need—while creating cherished memories and lasting lessons for years to come.

Written by Jacob Farrar, Director, University Relations.