Max volunteering in 2018
Value is an abstract and fascinating concept that can vary wildly from person to person. How much is a penny worth to you? Is it worth it to pick up off the floor? How about for someone else – would they hold the same value of that penny? Take, for example, the perspective of a young boy. Gone are the days of when a penny could buy a child a favorite candy (or two!) but a penny still has the power to change a child’s life.
Our friend Max had a transformative experience volunteering at Room in the Inn when he was only 5 years old. Room in the Inn is an organization that helps to set up homeless shelters in conjunction with congregations around Memphis. Max, his older brother and his mom were helping to restore a shelter and while he was volunteering he found a penny. Instead of pocketing the penny, he chose to donate it and let that penny bring happiness to others. A small gesture filled with immense meaning and power.
Fast forward a year later and while at school, Max journaled about his time volunteering and how he learned about how he can make a difference. This one experience left a lasting mark on Max and created a sense of the immense value that volunteerism can have. Fast forward four more years and young Max is now a 10 year old that still creating value is his community by volunteering!
Max’s journal
Much like the penny, Max’s individual volunteer time is small but mighty. And much like a collection of pennies, Max’s continued service will continue to grow in value and worth. Max has an unique story but it’s reflective of a path that all children can follow. Exploring volunteer opportunities with children can be fun and help to create a sense of community. There are numerous volunteer projects that can utilize even our smallest helpers. Children have the power to make a difference in the community and it’s never too early to start their journey!
To learn how you can engage your with your child and create value in the community, visit www.volunteercompass.com
Volunteer opportunities are searchable by age range and there are dozens of opportunities that are suitable for the whole family.
