One of the positive byproducts of this pandemic has been the resurgence of “family time”. Even though it may not have been planned, it has been decades since we’ve witnessed this type of togetherness among families. Game nights, bike rides, family dinners have become commonplace during this pandemic, and we believe it is strengthening families nationwide. Another creative way to spend “family time” is through volunteering together.

Believe it or not, volunteering with your family provides numerous benefits. Whether it be serving your local food pantry, animal shelter, senior citizen home, or non-profit community thrift store (how about The Bridge Thrift Store?!), all provide unique ways to give back to the community as well as opportunities for you and your family to connect in a meaningful way.

Here are some of the benefits for investing time as a family by volunteering:

Experience Something New 

Volunteering at a local organization together provides the opportunity to try something new. At The Bridge Thrift Store, this could include sorting clothing, preparing merchandise for sale, helping create a store display, and much more. These are all new and unique experiences for kids, teens and adults to experience together.

Create Memories Together

Volunteering alongside your family is a great way to spend quality time together. Plus, an experience like this will create memories your kids and teens will never forget. Volunteering together also instills important family values and provides the opportunity for kids, teens and adults to learn beyond the classroom.

Meet New People

Volunteering gives your family the opportunity to meet a range of different people from different backgrounds. It also allows time for kids and teens to disconnect from their phones, tablets, and other mobile devices - while it enhances their emotional development and fosters important social and communication skills.

Give Back to the Community

An individual volunteer makes an impact, but multiplying that service by the number people in your family helps our the community even more. At the end of your service, you can stand back with your family and know you all made a positive impact together in your community. For example, a family of 5 who volunteers to sort clothing at The Bridge Thrift Store can help provide unlimited access to The Bridge Teen Center for one student for 6 full months!

Volunteering Creates Smiles

It’s no surprise that volunteering increases self-confidence, combats depression, and provides people with a tremendous sense of purpose. Most noticeably, it creates an environment for you and your family members to smile together all while making an impact in the community. It’s truly a win-win situation!

If you are looking for a meaningful non-profit organization for you and your family to serve together, consider volunteering at The Bridge Thrift Store. Service opportunities include sorting, cleaning and shelving donated items. Plus, all proceeds from The Bridge Thrift Store support the free programs for teens at The Bridge Teen Center. To serve at The Bridge, all volunteers must be at least 10 years of age. To schedule your family service, call us at 708.532.0500 or send an email to [email protected].