How to Share the Value of Volunteering with Children

Named by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of its 150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know, Paul Generale serves as an executive vice president and the chief strategy and network officer for CHRISTUS Health in Dallas. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Paul Generale enjoys spending time with his family and volunteering with his children.

Volunteering can provide a meaningful way for family members to connect with each other and the wider community while engaging in activities that benefit society. To instill an affinity for service in children, it’s important to lead by example. Engaging in volunteer work, even before children can join, sends the message that volunteer work is valuable. Consider helping at the children’s school or for their sports team as a way to model the importance of participating.

When children are old enough to participate in service activities, singular community events such as a Neighborhood Clean-up Day or school fundraiser can help them experience the rewards of volunteer work. To establish a regular volunteering routine, consult children about the causes that matter to them. Whether it’s cuddling animals at a shelter or serving food at a soup kitchen, children will likely enjoy the experience more when they feel they have participated in the decision-making.