Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day occurs on April 16 annually. Voluntary service is a way to assist others and give back to society. A supportive community or neighborhood can be created by families working together to shape a caring and understanding environment in which all families can prosper in a spirit of partnership. Volunteering may not be a familiar concept to your child but even the smallest of children can be taught the importance of volunteering and making a contribution. This can help them develop a sense of appreciation and generosity as they grow older. Philanthropy can take the form of them donating their time or allocating a portion of their allowance to the causes that they believe in and support. Some suggestions for getting your daughter involved in community activities are provided below.
History of Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day
Volunteering began in the 12th century in Britain, where over 500 hospitals were staffed by volunteers. But it’s possible that people were helping others selflessly before then. Initially, volunteerism was closely associated with religious groups. The word ‘volunteering’ comes from the French word ‘volontaire’ and was used in connection with people who voluntarily joined the military as early as 1755. The constant desire for safety from external threats prompted the usage of this term, which at that point was still intimately linked to military aid. It is now associated with community service rather than military service.
Volunteering began during major conflicts and wars when youth, especially women, gathered to collect supplies and help wounded veterans. Officially structured volunteering began in the late 1800s and peaked in the early 1900s, with certain organizations still operational today. The Red Cross was founded during the Civil War when citizens arranged to offer free medical care under Clara Barton’s supervision. Today, Y.M.C.A., Rotary Club, and other organizations still arrange activities, and classes, collect money and bring people together to achieve a better world.
During WWII, volunteer groups were dispatched overseas for the first time (e.g. Peace Corps). As volunteering gained popularity, many academic institutions and corporations began requiring students and employees to volunteer. Surprisingly, the internet brought about the greatest transformation in volunteerism. It allows people to connect with global organizations, meaning awareness can be raised without geographical limits. To reach more individuals, organizations created internet directories and indexes. Helpful platforms were created, and more volunteers were interested when they learned about the various options available, and tough bridges were crossed.
Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day timeline
Benjamin Franklin forms the first volunteer firehouse.
A Boston maritime captain opens the first Y.M.C.A. in America.
William and Catherine Booth establish the Salvation Army, which would become one of America’s largest volunteer networks.
The American Red Cross begins and becomes one of the most famous volunteer groups.
The Rotary Club is formed in Chicago by a lawyer who decides to bring professionals together to work on ways of providing value to positively impact their community.
The Great Depression in America leads to the creation of soup kitchens due to the need for shelter and food.
During World War II, volunteers help both the military and citizens in many ways as nurse's assistants, disaster response volunteers (auxiliary firefighters), and helping to source scrap metal and rubber donations.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation begins and becomes one of the world’s largest non-profit charitable organizations.
Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day FAQs
What volunteering activities can I partake in?
Volunteering can come in various forms such as mentoring, teaching, counseling, youth work, sporting/outdoor activities, running an after-school program, raising awareness about prevalent issues, animal rescue, and care, conservation, community development, visiting the elderly, working in a local soup kitchen, and so on.
Why should I volunteer?
By assisting others, you reap internal rewards and gain a sense of belonging and satisfaction, which can be a very rewarding experience. Particularly if you contribute to a cause that you believe in and are enthusiastic about, this will bring tremendous value to the world and allow you to put your talents to good use.
What are the responsibilities of a volunteer?
Some of the responsibilities of a volunteer are to read to kids, make donations to charitable organizations, care for the elderly, give advice and support, do chores and deliveries, collect and analyze data, raise awareness about critical issues, do community cleanup and repairs, help protect the earth, sow trees, and aid political campaigns.
Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day Activities
Make it a fun activity
Most children love animals so volunteering at an animal shelter will make it a fun activity they will enjoy. It does not have to be a boring or grown-up activity they are not particularly interested in but something that aligns with their interests and that will make them want to do it continuously.
Be an example
Many children learn by emulating and it is great to involve your daughter(s) in volunteering by doing the same. Volunteering to deliver food to those in need, such as the elderly, or a bake sale, is a great activity that everyone can participate in. You can show the altruistic part of volunteering in your actions.
Go on a field trip
Participating in field trips that educate your children about significant social concerns such as homelessness, animal abuse, and environmental degradation is a good idea. These experiences might serve as a foundation for future volunteerism by providing knowledge and excitement. By demonstrating to your daughter who and what requires assistance, you can determine whether or not they want to help people in the future.
5 Volunteering Activities For You And Your Daughter
Decorating posters
To raise awareness about certain causes, posters need to be decorated.
Baking
You and your daughter can bake together for a bake sale and have fun while she lends a helping hand.
Volunteer at your local animal rescue
If you and your daughter are animal lovers, you can both volunteer at your local animal rescue shelter.
Fundraising
Fundraising can be done by having a yard sale or selling lemonade.
Volunteer to help other girls and women
You can travel to other countries with your daughter and volunteer to teach girls and women in need, and offer counseling on healthcare matters (if you are equipped to do so).
Why We Love Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day
It helps others
It teaches the importance of helping others. When we volunteer, we consider not just our needs but also the needs of others and how we can help them.
No barriers to volunteering
When volunteering you do not need a particular skill or qualification, nor does your age or background matter. Everyone can partake in the activity or contribute. Even if you are living with a disability, you can volunteer virtually by doing design work or writing. The only things needed are passion and compassion.
It allows for connection
Voluntary work allows you to better connect with your community. Even minor activities can make a huge difference in the lives of those in need. In addition, volunteering benefits both the volunteer and the cause they are helping. Volunteering helps you connect, socialize and network with new people.
Teach Your Daughter to Volunteer Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 16 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | April 16 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 16 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 16 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 16 | Sunday |
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