Four reasons to embrace an early start in volunteering

Volunteering can teach people of all ages and from all walks of life many great and important lessons that can make them better individuals. However, children are better learners than adults when it comes to teaching about compassion and empathy.

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An early start in volunteering allows the child to learn about valuable life lessons and carry them as they grow up. Through volunteering, kids can learn how to follow instructions and work with others. Having to work with others develops a child’s ability to feel empathy and compassion towards others. Volunteering exposes children to the realities of life.

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Larry Polhill says that encouraging children to try their hand on the altruistic activity helps them find their voice. When a child volunteers, they become the voice of the people they support and care for. The purpose of volunteering is to make a difference to communities where it is most needed. While they gain more knowledge and experiences about the realities of life through volunteering, they develop important qualities that will drive them to continue serving others.

Serving others can boost one’s college application. However, this should never be a child’s main purpose for volunteering. According to Larry Polhill, this certain reason for becoming a volunteer at an early age is the cherry on top. Volunteering builds a meaningful life not only for the ones who benefit from the efforts through giving, but also for the children who learn how to give, empathize, and work with others in hopes to making the world a better place for everyone.

Larry Polhill is a recent graduate of the University of Florida. He is currently immersed in various volunteer work. For more updates, subscribe to his blog.