Charity is different at each age.Here is an article that offers suggestions on collecting things, doing things, teaching things, hosting things, making things, or volunteering time to serve a community.
|
Charity and Social AnxietyHaving social anxiety makes it tough to step over the doorway and into a new experience. Sometimes you need an extra push to help you take the first step.
|
In our experience, Charity under 13 years old requires creativity. Some places allow kids to volunteer with an adult. A lot do not.
So, we did two things. We chose some charities. You can investigate some charities based on the values you have (this was easy for us because mom has worked in the non-profit sector for years). About 8 years ago, the oldest started getting very invested in the donation appeals we got in the mail. So we made a chart of the various charities and non-profits we love and new ones we discovered. We looked up their financials to see where the money goes and their mission and vision. We investigated what they do and how they do it. Then we each chose 1 local charity and 1 bigger group for each person to donate to. Then we donated. We decided to donate toys if we want new toys, donate food to the food pantry, and donate new items to the charities we love. Some of our charities, like a local domestic violence shelter, are always in need of new and sometimes used items (toys and kid's clothes!). We are able to drop them off in person so we can volunteer our time, even if it's 10 minutes. Some of the charities we chose were: |
Charity is probably the only thing that helped before we really started researching and learning how to manage social anxiety.
It helped because we felt empathy when we heard or read about charitable organization work. It made us want to act despite our anxiety because empathy. This is the best way to practice social skills and communication because most good charities so desperately need help. They are thankful for you, and you know what to expect. So once you get a plan (see the links below) in place, start by reaching out to a local charity to see what they need. Most places will want a child under 16 to be with a caregiver for regular volunteering, but special events always need volunteers. |
Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota is home to the Oglala Sioux Tribe. They need things I take for granted all the time like socks or scraps of material. They also have the connection to other reservations and tribes that have needs. I think it's very important to take care of people.
|
The Nature Conservancy- They protect and help people protect land and water that no one else does. You can send donations or volunteer by removing invasive plants with your family or using your skills and interests to make a difference. You can visit their preserves and meet new friends. There are so many ways you can show up for nature! You can visit their website to see what events or preserves are near you.
|
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) was the first humane society to be established in North America and is, today, one of the largest in the world. For over 150 years, the ASPCA has worked tirelessly to put an end to animal abuse and neglect. You can help in a bunch of different ways!
|
Since 1977, The Nest has been a lifeline for all individuals and families in crisis, facing adversity, or who have unexpected needs. Our holistic approach incorporates four FREE programs: early childhood education and care, family assistance for basic human needs, counseling and advocacy for survivors of intimate partner violence, and education and support for parents. Our vision is to create a community where children, adults, and families thrive by transforming their lives through real and sustainable change.
|