Children's hospitals do so much good for families when they absolutely need it the most.
When a child falls ill, it's extremely hard on a family, especially on the child itself. Everyone needs as much help as possible during these trying times.
But it can also be easy to forget that these hospitals need a lot of help too. However, not everyone has money to donate, even though it is an incredible cause. So how can you help if you would rather do something a bit more personal for the hospital and those who pass through its doors?
There are tons of ways to volunteer and help out your local children's hospital, but these 10 ideas are a really great place to start. There really is something for everyone!
Which of these would you consider doing for your nearest children's hospital? I've been meaning to make more time to help others, and these give me the chance to do just that!
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Thumbnail source: Wikimedia Commons / Official Navy Page, Novant Health
1. Schedule A Time To Bring Your Dog
Always check with your local hospital first, but many have events where dog owners come in with their canines and let the children do things like go on walks with them, or simply lie next to them while they read a book. This companionship is known to help the healing process by keeping up spirits, and is often open to regular pet owners, not just those with therapy animals!
2. Volunteer In The On-Site Classroom
Kids in hospitals still need to learn, and the classrooms need volunteers like you. From teacher's assistants to tutors, there are more ways than one to help out in your local children's hospital classroom.
3. Volunteer In The Chapel
For those who are spiritual, the chapel can be an incredibly important place in a children's hospital. Parents in need of a safe space to pray for the health of their children as well as children who find comfort in their own prayer rely on the chapel. You can volunteer to be a chaplain's aide, or if you have the training, you can become a Eucharistic minister too.
4. Become A Foster Grandparent
Everyone knows that grandparents are the best at making kids feel comfortable, but not all children have grandparents. You can volunteer to be a foster grandparent at many hospitals to read and talk with the sick children.
5. Work In The Gift Shop
Many children's hospital gift shops are run entirely by volunteers, and need your help! You'll be wrapping gifts, stocking shelves, and chatting with customers for the sake of the children.
6. Be A Mascot
Many children's hospitals have their very own mascot, much like sports teams do. This mascot will make appearances at events in the hospital, as well as off-site. If getting into a costume and acting silly sounds like something you would like to do, then inquire with your local children's hospital about if they have a mascot that needs someone to wear the suit.
7. Go On A Run
There are lots of opportunities to go on a short fun run or walk in support of your local children's hospital. If you're super dedicated, you can even run full and half-marathons to benefit a charity of your choice, which could easily be your children's hospital.
8. Attend Hospital-Run Events
From charity dinners to movie nights, every event you attend will benefit your local children's hospital, and you'll get a great experience out of it too!
9. Get Your Place Of Work Involved
Many employers are always looking for new ways to give. You can recommend starting a fundraiser at your office and get everyone involved, or even organize an entire office fundraising event on your own.
10. Shop Smart
Many children's hospitals have merchandise for sale, often made by patients or local artists. Others work with local businesses to bring in money to benefit hospital programs. Do some research to see if your local children's hospital does anything like this. Helping can be as easy as running your errands and doing your shopping at places that donate a portion of their profits.
Did you know you can help your local children's hospital in these simple ways? Please SHARE with your family and friends on Facebook!
