With children out of school for summer vacation, you may be looking for ways to keep your kids entertained and busy. Volunteering is the perfect summer pastime-it provides opportunities to do meaningful work, learn new skills, and make new friends.
There are many ways to volunteer and help your community this summer. Here are a few ideas for all ages:
* Create or join a community garden. A community garden is a great way to spend time with your friends and family while sharing food with neighbors.
* Start a trash pick-up initiative. Choose a neighborhood, street, or park to beautify by picking up litter. This will help keep outside clean and is a great service to the community.
* Show neighborly love. If you know someone who is elderly or sick, make a point to visit them once a week to chat, read to them, or help with chores or yard work.
* Check with your local homeless shelter. Many shelters need help serving meals or organizing community drives to collect and sort donations.
* Volunteer with your local animal shelter. Your local animal shelter may need help laundering blankets or taking photos of pets for adoptions.
Remember, small positive changes can make a big difference. To find a volunteer opportunity near you, visit the AmeriCorps website.
Your Employee Assistance Program is Here to Support
For additional assistance locating a volunteer opportunity, contact your Component Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information or for help in contacting your EAP, write to your DHS Work-Life specialists at worklife@hq.dhs.gov.
Source: Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate
