Volunteering and the Disabled Child

There are hundred and thousands of programs geared to help the disadvantaged and disabled, but few realize that there are just as many disabled individuals, young and old, anxious to offer their skills and gifts to help others. Volunteerism is not something limited one's bank book or body, it is only limited by the sixe of one's heart. There is a growing trend around the world that supports disabled people in their volunteering efforts. If you are a parent of a disabled child, this is something you should consider.

Why Volunteer?

When we all were young we wanted to save the world. Now, we are parents, we want our children to care about the world as well. For a disabled child, volunteering can serve a dual purpose. A disabled volunteer can show others that disabilities do not limit a person's ability to care or be part of a community. Also, in volunteering, a disabled volunteer also educates others about their own special illness or condition. Volunteering will help your child hone life skills, which include socialization, time management, and social responsibility.

Getting Involved

As parents, we lead and raise our children through examples. Getting a disabled child involved with community service is really no different from getting any other child involved. Parents should always make honest decisions about the activities they choose for their child to participate.

Things to consider can include:

1) Whether there will be safe and easily maneuverable environments;

2) Will mentors and work buddies be available or needed;

3) Is there an opportunity for a flexible schedule for volunteer work;

4) Will special transportation be provided or needed;

5) Can the entire family participate;

6) Does the organization or activity play to your child's interests and strengths.

Examples of Volunteer Opportunities

A disabled volunteer has a number of activities in which they can participate. Choices can range from basic support, participation and promotion.

Charity Walk/Run/Athletic Event: Disabled Youth can actually participate in athletic fundraisers or charity walks. Collecting sponsors or pledges can be worked out with parents, aides or buddies.

Arts/Crafts: For those artistic individuals, there are so many opportunities to make posters for school or charitable events. If an occasion calls for ribbons, flyer, banners or even buttons, making these items will help promote your cause and also be a way for your child to demonstrate their special talent. There are also moves to create murals and other art on city walls. A crafty youth can help in painting community murals.

Environmentally conscious: Just like the boy scouts, disabled kids can take on projects that beautify areas. Kid can take time to clean trash from parks or along safer roads. Also, planting projects can be a boon for an area. With mentors and the rights tools, the disabled student can help plant flowers and trees in parts, at schools and/or at local daycares.

Make Refreshments: For those kids great in the kitchen, they can help by making baked goods for fundraisers or by makingcookies, pies, cupcakes and other treats for local homes for the elderly or disabled.

Volunteerism offers so many benefits. For some they can lead to career or skill building opportunities. For a disabled child, volunteering can be just as rewarding, because it gives the disabled child a connection to others. Community service also proves to others that disabled youth can contribute and be responsible.

While there are so many organizations that work to help the disabled, people should not overlook the fact that disabled people also can make contributions to their community. Every one of us wants to make a difference and as a parent of a disabled child, we hope that our children can have happy and fulfilling lives. Among all its other benefits, volunteerism and community service are ways that these goals can be achieved.