Looking for something to do with your family that’s different from movie night and will make a lasting impact? Volunteering as a family has countless benefits for everyone involved. When we serve alongside our children, we show them the power of supporting our community and how we come together and incredible things can happen. It’s important for children to see they are not too young to help, and that kids can make a difference!
There are many local places where families are able to volunteer with their children. If you’ve been looking for a place to serve, look no further. Here are some options for you!
Gorman Heritage Farm
10052 Reading Rd., Evendale | gormanfarm.org
There are many volunteer opportunities at the Farm including, photography, gardening, animal care, painting, lawn care, general maintenance, trail upkeep, fence building, cleaning and more. Fill out an online form and set up a time for a volunteer orientation. This will include a tour of the Farm and learn more about the volunteer opportunities available, so you can find the perfect fit.
Heartt Animal Refuge
11354 Reading Rd., Cincinnati | hearttanimalrefuge.org
Heartt Animal Refuge is a no-kill, all-volunteer animal shelter that is always looking for volunteers. They offer two shifts per day, 365 days a year. Volunteer opportunities include cleaning cat cages and rooms, helping with fundraisers, helping with recycling programs, and of course, rubbing cat bellies. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent the first time so the parent can sign the document allowing their kids and teens to volunteer.
Stepping Stones
5650 Given Rd., Cincinnati (Saturday Kids Club) and 1414 Lake Allyn Rd., Batavia (Weekend Respites) | steppingstonesohio.org
Stepping Stones has volunteer shifts available in their weekend programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities. Children over the age of 13 who meet the service requirements, can volunteer with the Saturday Club and Weekend Respite programs serving as a program buddy.
With the Saturday Kids Club, volunteers are matched with a group and spend the day engaging participants in recreation activities, including art, nature, sensory and holiday celebrations. Volunteers helping with the Weekend Respites will help engage participants in a variety of seasonal and outdoor activities during their weekend retreat on the 47-acre Camp Allyn. Due to the pandemic, all volunteers must be able to show proof of vaccination and wear a mask indoors.
The Foodbank Dayton
56 Armor Place, Dayton | thefoodbankdayton.org
The mission of The Foodbank is to relieve hunger in the community through a network of partner agencies by acquiring and distributing food. Food and other supplies are distributed to a network of pantries, community kitchens, shelters and other charitable programs, all of which support the health and development of food insecure individuals.
Volunteer opportunities are available Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All volunteers must be at least 14 to volunteer in the food bank warehouse and drive-through. All ages are welcome at the Mobile Markets and Urban Garden with supervision.
Grace Hospice
3033 Kettering Blvd., Moraine | ghospice.com
Grace Hospice is designed to provide comfort care, spiritual and emotional support in the final phase of a terminal illness. The organization focuses on enhancing quality of life and volunteers pay a key role in that mission. Youth volunteers (ages 14-17) receive two hours of training prior to serving.
Five Rivers MetroParks
Locations around Dayton | metroparks.org
All you need to become a volunteer is enthusiasm for Ohio natural or cultural history, a willingness to learn and a desire to share with others. Your time commitment depends on you and your assignment. You can also help with special event, such as Adopt-A-Park, Bike to Work Day, Make a Difference Day and Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience.
Learning Tree Farm
3376 S. Union Rd., Dayton | learningtreefarm.org
Learning Tree Farm’s mission is to provide hands-on learning experiences in a traditional farm setting. There are a wide variety of tasks volunteers can help with. The primary need from spring to fall is garden work, including planting, weeding and harvesting. They also need volunteers to help keep the wooded trails clear, clean stalls, help with fundraisers, community events, and more.