Volunteer Ideas for Young Children

The only thing/places I could think of are the following

Hope Children's home- store is on 275 & Fowler- old Pier 1 outlet. This is a thrift store. So toys are a donation & tax deductible, and yes they do sell them. The Children's home has an open house once a year as well as a monthly news letter. http://www.hopechildrenshome.org/ They are a christian organization who takes in foster kids. they live more in a dorm/ boarding school type setting than a regular foster home. they accept other donations, box tops for education, etc, as well as supplies, cleaning supplies, clothes etc. I have know about them for several years & have been pleased with their work with kids which is why I keep donating items, box tops etc whatever I can. I don't know if they have ways for kids to directly help out. You can contact them & see. The people there are very nice.

You can also try Metropoliton ministeries- also don't know what they have for kids.

Yes, there is the springs, for mothers and child that have been abused, I have taken my toys and kids clothes there, there is one in plant city, fl, and tampa you can call and get the list.

M.
mom of 2 4yr olds

How about visiting a nursing home or hospice? I know it can be a little scary, but I wish our culture taught more about respecting our elders. I went to nursing homes a lot when young and the residents loved seeing me. We both benefitted.

Also check on volunteermatch.com. I use that website a lot.

if you belong to a church ask them if they know of any families with young children that could benefit. usually even the angel tree's or Joshua House ect- they all need sealed and unwrapped gifts. for good reason I'm sure, but just like our home, I'm sure you're looking at a mountain of gently used, much loved, but still in great shape toys that would make any NUMBER of children happy. try the church angle or even maybe a school. typically they can offer a family or two that they know of that could use & will appreciate the gift of kindness.
good luck and thank you for having such a big heart! Happy Holidays!

I would love to hear if you find a place where kids can go and donate. I tried it for my kids since it shows them first hand the purpose and pleasure of 'giving' but I never found any place. Even for foster kids or orphans, the court person came in their pick up truck so kids really did not understand how it is helping any other child. In past two years, we just donated to Goodwill.

Thanks
S.