Volunteering for kids and teens: Why is it so important to support children’s desire to help?

My father has always been an example of charity for me. His kind deeds, willingness to support others, and readiness to act have inspired me since childhood. Today, I am a mother, and I strive to be the same support and guide for my daughter.

That’s why I believe that kindness is not just an “adult thing.” It’s about values nurtured from a young age — about the desire to act when others are struggling.

The culture of volunteering is shaped in families, schools, and communities.
Our task is to nurture it together, from the smallest to the greatest.

Why involve children in volunteering?

Volunteering is a practice of empathy that shapes values from childhood: care, responsibility, and solidarity.

In many countries, volunteering is part of civic education.

Research shows that teenagers with volunteering experience are more likely to take initiative, cope better with stress, and have higher levels of trust in society.

Why Involve children in volunteering?

Volunteering is a practice of empathy that helps shape core values from childhood — such as care, responsibility, and solidarity.

In many countries, volunteering is a part of civic education.

Studies show that teenagers with volunteering experience tend to take more initiative, cope better with stress, and have a higher level of trust in society.

How to make volunteering for children safe and effective?

And remember: a child is not a “smaller volunteer.” Their motivation and way of acting are simply different. Give them space to create their own way of doing good.

HOW CAN A CHILD HELP OTHERS?

CREATIVITY

drawing supportive cards, creating crafts for charity fairs.

HELPING IN COMMUNITY

support for elderly neighbors (cleaning, simply spending time together), participation in community clean-ups and eco-initiatives

EDUCATION AND AWARENESS

organizing charity events and flash mobs at school, writing blogs with stories of good deeds

FROM HEART TO HEART

helping younger students with learning, participating in theatrical programs for internally displaced children

Our experience supporting teen volunteering

At the «SviTy» Psychosocial Support Center for Teens in Zhytomyr, we teach a culture of action. SviTy participants take part in:

We create an environment where they see the impact of their involvement and feel a sense of belonging.

CHILDREN ARE ALREADY TAKING ACTION

Young people don’t need to be forced to help. All they need is an example and trust.

When they see that helping is something natural, they start making change on their own.