Why I Volunteer in My Kids School

Volunteering is a way in which an individual can enrich his or her life while serving others. Volunteering provides a sense of community and self-worth. Perspectives can improve and lives can be changed when one chooses to volunteer and give of oneself.

One reason why I volunteer is simply because the school needs help with so many functions and activities. Volunteering also helps me appreciate and respect those who work at the school on a daily basis. Volunteering is a way for me to escape from the stress of my world. When I volunteer and become involved with someone else, I lose track of time and discover that I am really enjoying myself. Another reason I volunteer is that it makes me feel great to help with school functions and activities. I get to be a part of the process, which gives me a sense of purpose and I also get to see the results of many projects I participate in. These opportunities help me realize how big the world really is and how we can all contribute to something that really matters -- our children.

In addition, I volunteer because I enjoy watching students improve/and/or learn something.

Because my children witness me giving to the community, they learn good behaviors such as helping others. However, anyone, young or old, can easily see how the spirit of volunteering is healthy for those who give and receive. I've also discovered that the act of giving is contagious. Many parents who attend functions when I am volunteering often ask questions about how they can become involved. When they see another parent taking time out of a busy schedule, they become inspired and actually believe that they can do the same thing. This is also a great opportunity to meet new people. When my children witness all or any of these things resulting from the act of volunteering, I believe they are learning a valuable lesson they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Volunteering offers many opportunities to teach my children how to give to others and the community. First of all, they learn the importance of giving. I believe that any investment is worthwhile, whether it is hosting at a fundraiser or cleaning up after an event. I also believe that whatever it is that I am doing, I should give it my best. I want my children to learn these principles. I also believe that giving my time to others is a great way to feel good about myself. This is also something I want my children to learn. Often, situations do not always go exactly as planned and it is up to everyone to pitch in and find a way to make things work according to schedule. When my children are a part of something like this, they learn an important fact about life, which is that plans sometimes need to be altered. I can tell my children this, but when they see me involved in a project that presents challenges and witness everyone working together to make things work, they gain a clearer understanding about how life operates. In addition, when my children see me participating, they know that I care about them and their schoolmates. That is the ultimate gift.