Raising a compassionate child starts with parents leading by example. However, acts of kindness do not have to be an individual effort. Working as a family on a community service project is not only a great way to help others, but also a way to bond as a family. I know that many of us work on community service projects as a family, doing things like working in soup kitchens, visiting nursing homes, beautification projects and more. But have you considered taking those efforts on the road? There are many ways to incorporate volunteerism or giving back into your family travels.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to give back, or any money in some instances. Often times, the only cost is your time – the most valuable commodity of all.
Have you heard the term voluntourism before? It is defined by the act of giving back to the places you travel. More and more people are looking for ways to combine volunteering efforts with scheduled holiday trips. Giving back to the community while traveling is guaranteed to enhance your itinerary and manifest lasting memories. Have you or a family member vacationed with the sole intention to give back to the community?
We’re having a great conversation about giving back to the community over in the Family Travel Talk Forum by Residence Inn on Facebook. I hope you’ll stop by and join the conversation. If you’re not already a member of the forum, just ask for an invite and we’ll get you added right away.
In what ways does your family give back to the community while traveling or at home?
This post is brought to you through by our partnership with Residence Inn.
Haven’t heard of voluntourism before. But I know that leaving a place better then how you found it is a good thing.
This sounds like a great way to give back… I will have to check it out… thanks so much
I love this.. what a great post and I had no idea, but this will come in handy when we travel this summer and share yet another way to give back with the kids.. love it.
This is really neat! I had never thought to do this before, but it could be really fun, and definitely a great learning experience for kids.
I love it when companies find a way to give back to them community. Thanks for sharing.
I’ve never heard of this before, but I like it! I can’t help but think about the great memories it would create….and it would be a good way to really get to know the people of a town or city your visiting.
I have totally heard of voluntourism. Global is looking into it for different destinations out of the US.
We haven’t done this but we always try and teach the kids to be helpful and kind to others when we travel.
I had never heard of this, but love the idea!! I try to help animals around here whenever possible.
I recently read an article about voluntourism. It is an interesting concept. I love giving back whenever possible.