Philanthropy is central to the holidays, but not as many people are participating in the
season of giving.
Volunteering rates still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic levels, leaving many charities
struggling to make up the difference. And that’s a shame for volunteers, too – because
helping others can have a larger impact than you may realize. Researchers at Harvard
University say that regularly paying it forward can improve your health and alleviate stress –
while a UTHealth Houston study found that volunteering can reduce mental health
challenges like anxiety and depression among young people.
For children, helping others can also teach valuable lessons about empathy. That’s why the
Orlando Science Schools system partners with local charities to give our students hands-
on community service opportunities – such as a fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish
Foundation in October and a canned food drive for The Sharing Center in November –
where they can learn, grow and give back to the community.
As you and your family finalize plans for the holiday season, consider penciling in time for
charity. There’s no better time to help a neighbor in need … and share the joy of generosity
with your kids. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
• Sign up for a volunteer shift: Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
estimates that around one in seven people in our area are battling food insecurity,
and meeting that need takes extensive community support. Reach out to local food
banks or meal delivery charities to find out how you can help – whether by sorting
through canned goods, unloading trucks or answering calls. If your child is too
young to participate, take a trip to the grocery store and buy nonperishables that you
can drop off together.
• Raise money for a nonprofit: Cupcakes and brownies are more than just a treat;
they can be a relatively simple way to support a charity, so make a few desserts with
your children and organize a bake sale. Once the goods are all gone, sit down with
your household and decide where to donate the proceeds. Alternatively, if you know
someone who needs some assistance, talk about how you can use the money to
make their life easier.
• Connect with an older neighbor: More than a third of seniors experience
loneliness, according to the University of Michigan. It’s a feeling that can be
amplified during the holidays, particularly among older adults who live in assistedliving facilities or who don’t have friends or relatives nearby. Call a nursing home in
your neighborhood and ask whether your family can participate in crafts, host a
talent show or simply have a conversation with the residents – all of which can spark
some much-needed seasonal cheer.
At Orlando Science Schools, we know that nurturing compassion, integrity and character is
just as important as teaching academic skills. It’s why we encourage students and
teachers alike to get involved in volunteer activities, both in the classroom and beyond.
Because service isn’t about spending an afternoon giving back: It’s a commitment to live by
all year round.
When we help others, everyone benefits – our neighbors, our community and even
ourselves. Take time this holiday season to share those benefits with your children … and
instill values that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Kristi Hancock is the Dean of Students at Seminole Science Charter School, which
operates within the Orlando Science Schools (OSS) system. OSS utilizes research-based
methods to provide students across three Central Florida counties with a hands-on and
engaging STEM education that puts children on the path to promising careers and long-term
success.
