Service Birthday Parties
- Katie O'Shea
- Nov 19, 2019
- 3 min read
I love hearing what your families are doing to give back in the community. Charlotte is filled with very generous people who want to help others and who want teach their children to to give and to have empathy. Sometimes we just need ideas! Here is an idea that came from my neighbor Laurie. Anytime I have done a collection in the neighborhood or any other giving project, Laurie is the first on my doorstep, so it doesn’t surprise me that she organized her son’s birthday party around volunteering. Her idea led me to look for other organizations where kids can help others and celebrate their birthday in a meaningful way. It could be a tough sell when you are going up against trampoline parks and laser tag, but what a memorable and meaningful way to let your kids experience giving back to others. These ideas could also happen with a group of kids on any given weekend.
From Laurie:
Last September, we did a service project at Crisis Assistance Ministry in lieu of a party for Ryan’s birthday. For two hours, we inspected, sorted and hung clothing preparing it for their free store. The free store offers clothing, shoes, and household items free of charge to residents in need in Mecklenburg County. We then enjoyed pizza and cake at one of the work tables. With all the usual silliness and fun, it felt almost like a “regular” party. Parents also brought items to donate, an added bonus for Crisis Assistance. It was free of cost and the kids and parents who stayed really enjoyed themselves. The staff was excellent and made everyone feel appreciated and we actually got some work done! Most importantly, no one who joined us that day will forget seeing the long line of our neighbors in need waiting outside for their turn to shop. It made such an impression. The real impact, especially for children, is feeling a connection to the people you are helping and to actually see them receive the benefit of your contribution. We all went home feeling like we had done some good in our community. ❤️
Youth Volunteer Guidelines for the Free Store Production Area:
Volunteers must be at least 5 years old
Volunteers under 16 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult
One adult may chaperone up to 5 volunteers
Crisis Assistance Ministry
500A Spratt Street, Charlotte, NC
(704) 371-3001
Follow them on instagram for the latest needs and to see the difference they are making.
@crisisassistmin
Here are some other options I found in the community and their contact information. Have you ever done a service birthday party? Tell me about it!
Bright Blessings
1150 Crews Road, Matthews, NC
704.846.2329
www.brightblessingsusa.org
@brightblessingsusa
Check out their website or follow them on instagram for lots of ways your family can reach out and help children experiencing homelessness in our community. This would be a fabulous organization to get your kids involved with for a birthday party or anytime. They accept volunteers of all ages. Look for a future post about this organization- they are doing amazing work and it is a great place for kids to volunteer.
The Humane Society
2700 Toomey avenue, charlotte, NC 28203
@humanecharlotte
Is your child an animal lover? The humane society only accepts volunteers at the shelter who are 16 years of age and older, but they offer some wonderful ways your kids can help. If your kids are crafty, they can follow these simple directions to create DIY toys and blankets for the animals. What a fun birthday party this would be!
They could also do a collection of supplies in lieu of gifts for their birthday. Here is the wish list for the shelter:
Baby Bundles
6509 Northpark Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28216
@babybundlesnc
Baby Bundles is a wonderful organization that presents new and gently used clothing and other baby essentials to underprivileged families in the Charlotte area. Baby Bundles has opportunities for groups and families and loves to have children come to help. Collect baby items to donate and come create bundles to help these families.
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