Learning to Make a Difference: How to Instill a Volunteer Spirit in Our Kids by Melinda Sharp

Single Moms Parenting
5 years ago

Learning to Make a Difference: How to Instill a Volunteer Spirit in Our Kids

Being a single parent offers an amazing opportunity to teach your children many things. The most important thing my children learned from me was to develop a solid work ethic and how to make a difference as a volunteer.

As a single parent, money was tight, and I immediately set out to get a full-time job. However, it was hard for me to give up my volunteer roles in the PTA (yes, I was one of those moms) and coaching. I was also a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). I settled on one or two, and by managing my time (usually) my children watched – and learned.

As a family we would volunteer serving at the homeless shelter meals program. Now they both are adults who also work full-time challenging jobs – and manage to volunteer, too. My son volunteers working with veterans in hospice (he is a veteran Marine) and my daughter volunteers with animal programs and at the zoo.

Try to remember: we are better when we share our talents with others, even when we are worn out and just need an hour to relax in a hot bath.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.

Ann Marie Patitucci
So true, Melinda Sharp ! Welcome to our community of writers.
Renee
"The most important thing my children learned from me was to develop a solid work ethic and how to make a difference as a volunteer." How great is that!? Melinda, I am so glad to "see" you here!
Tribe
We are definitely better when we share our talents with others. This is great.
Cynthia Miller
I really like this. Volunteering teaches such empathy and gives a broad perspective. It's easy to be wrapped up in our own worlds. I like the way you framed this - (1) that learning to volunteer was the most important things your kids learned from you (WOW THAT IS A POWERFUL STATEMENT) and (2) that you CAN be an overwhelmed mom and carve out time for this simply by prioritizing. We volunteer at the animal shelter but sometimes I slack off in my overwhelmed-ness. Thank you for this thoughtful share!
Melinda Sharp
Thank you for your comment and support. I found myself just in survival mode most days and volunteering was my sanity saver! I was lucky that my kids enjoyed our time together.
Elisa Schmitz
What a beautiful and powerful story, Melinda Sharp ! You’re an amazing mother. I was a single mom for a while, too, so I know how hard it is. You set a wonderful example for your children with values that will last a lifetime. ❤️
Sheri B Doyle
@melindaSharp Thank you for what you do to make a difference in this world and for this tip. Leading by example is a great way to teach our children and to better our world!

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Bye, Felicia: 4 Things You Need to Give Up This New Year to Live a Better Life

Traditional Sweet Italian Easter Bread Recipe With Colored Eggs

Sweet Bunny Bread Recipe: A Fun Easter Craft That You Can Eat

“Become the Fire” Book Signing at The Book Stall: Building Community Has Never Been So Much Fun