Summer break is finally here! Our summer bucket list is ready and it’s no surprise that “volunteering” appears on there. Finding family volunteering opportunities in Chicago is not a simple task. However, I’ve been able to find organizations that do make it possible.
For understandable reasons, many volunteer opportunities are designed for adults or older teens. But, over the past few years, I’ve seen more family-specific sessions and relaxed age requirements.
Finding Family Volunteer Activities
There are two many ways that I find local volunteer opportunities for my boys.
- Start with organizations that compile or host a series of volunteer projects for children.
- Search familiar nonprofits looking for ones that allow kids to volunteer.
Below is a roundup of my go-to groups.
The Honeycomb Project
The Honeycomb Project helps Chicago families explore the city through service. On their website, you will find a list of events that they’ve planned across the city. We’re doing our first project with them this summer!
Ages: Varies based on activity
Inside Out Club (DuPage County)
Inside Out Club host programs and service projects in DuPage County to encourage kindness and character development. In addition to service projects, they also do challenges and 5Ks to carry out their mission.
Ages: Kindergarten and older recommended
Share Our Spare
Share Our Spare helps give Chicago area children essential items like diapers and clothing. They host open volunteer sessions at their Sharehouse in the city. I took my boys last year and they LOVED it. I can’t wait to get back there.
Ages: 6 years and up
Bernie’s Book Bank (Lake County)
Bernie’s Book Bank provides free books to children in the Chicago area. Families can help sort, process and bag up donations at their north suburban site. It is so cool to be in a warehouse filled with children’s books. I highly recommend it.
Ages: All ages and abilities welcome
Greater Chicago Food Depository
The Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) connects Chicagoans with healthy food. They occasionally host Kids’ Day for children ages 5-11 and have ongoing opportunities for those 11 and older. The youth-friendly slots fill up fast. If you’re trying to get in there, you might need to plan a couple of months out.
Ages: 11+ years, but occasional events for 5-11 year olds
Feed My Starving Children
Feed My Starving Children serves meals to children across the world. They host packing sessions putting together meal kits at three Illinois locations. I’ve been there before but have not brought the boys yet. Because they are competitive and task-oriented, it’s on our list to do this year.
Ages: Minimum age is 5 years old, but they recommend students in third grade or older
If your children are younger, then consider an at-home volunteer project. We’re doing the Bloom Summer of Service Challenge again. So I’m making sure the boys have their activities all lined up.
Do you know of other organizations in Chicago with family volunteering? Drop them in the comments below!
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