While we can talk the talk about helping others, it’s when we walk the walk that the lesson really sinks in.
If you’re looking for a creative way to teach your child the importance of giving back and making a difference, consider hosting a spring fling.
Here’s what you’ll need to do to get started
1. Consider a charity that your family wants to support.
Choosing a charity that your family can relate to can make the experience more personal. If someone in your family is battling cancer, you may wish to support the American Cancer Society, for example. It’s also a good idea to contact the charity you choose to support to see if they have any ideas, rules or regulations regarding fundraising type events.
2. Select a date, time and location.
If you have a big backyard, perhaps that’s the perfect location to host your spring fling. Community centers, recreation centers and churches in your area may also be willing to lend out some space.
3. Plan the logistics.
Consider if you’ll be raising cash or items. If you’re going to be supporting a local women’s shelter, for example, you may want to conduct a diaper drive, rather than collect donations. You’ll also want to begin to round up volunteers to help out the day of your event.
4. Outline your events.
What’s going to draw people to your event? What’s your theme? Consider setting up stations that people can visit during your spring fling. Some station ideas may include an arts and crafts table with a project for kids to do, a ring toss, face painting, a make your own sundae bar and other carnival like games. Perhaps local businesses will donate a bounce house or sponsor live music. Maybe even a local celebrity will make an appearance.
5. Send out the invites.
Let everyone know what you’re doing and when! Purchase postcards from someplace like vistaprint.com and hand them out to people. Send the details to your local newspaper and radio station.
6. Present your donation.
Once your event is over, schedule a time for your family to present the donation to the charity of your choice. This will be a proud moment for you all!
However you set up your spring fling, be sure to find a way for everyone to help out. From collecting donations to helping out with games, be sure everyone in the family has a role.
