“A lot of parents feel overwhelmed by the idea of community service,” says Jenny Friedman, Ph.D., executive director of Doing Good Together, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit that helps families find ways to volunteer together. ... But projects like Marin’s prove that it doesn’t take a lot to make a big difference. The best way to get kids excited about taking on a new project? Start with something they already know and love.
"Volunteering with Kids in Boston" - MommyPoppins Boston
Doing Good Together encourages family volunteerism and reflection on social issues. The website has a page of ‘Kitchen Table Activities” – things you can do together as a family at home to improve people’s lives, heal the Earth, fight poverty and take social action.
"Volunteering: Education Outside the Classroom" - Metro Family Magazine
“There are enormous benefits for kids and parents who get involved in community service,” Friedman explains. “In addition to the good that it does in the community, volunteerism can build both academic skills and self esteem in young people. Ultimately, it tells our youth that they matter and can make a difference in the world around them.”
"Twin Cities schools' family service nights bring students, parents together to volunteer" - St. Paul Pioneer Press
The concept of a school family service night was developed by Jenny Friedman of Minneapolis, founder of an organization called Doing Good Together. Six years ago, Friedman worked with parents at Cornelia Elementary School in Edina to come up with the model: stations where parents and kids complete easy activities to benefit local nonprofit organizations.
