One of the most effective ways to bring your family closer together is through service. As Professor Kari Ure from Utah State University points out, “Family volunteering leads to increased marital and family satisfaction, improved parenting and conflict resolution, shared experiences and values, and fosters bonding between parents and children.”
- Donating toys and clothes
- Collecting items for a local shelter
- Volunteering at the food bank
- Visiting a nursing home or care facility
- Participating in a community cleanup effort
- Helping at the animal shelter
- Donating a warm blanket to someone in need
These activities not only strengthen relationships but also create lasting memories. With countless opportunities to serve others, here are just a few ideas for how your family can make a difference right here in Utah.
One of the simplest ways to help those in need is by donating toys and clothes your kids have outgrown. Not only does it declutter your home, but it provides valuable items to those who could really use them.
Consider donating to organizations like Goodwill, Deseret Industries or any local charity. If you happen to know someone in your neighborhood — like a new mom who could use that bin of baby clothes you’ve been storing — consider delivering the items directly to them. It’s a small act of kindness that can make a big difference, and it’s a meaningful way to teach kids the importance of sharing.
The act of giving back not only strengthens relationships but also creates lasting memories. With countless opportunities to serve others, here are just a few ideas for how your family can make a difference right here in Utah.
| Organizations | Items Needed | How to Donate |
|---|---|---|
| Goodwill | Towels, underwear, and laundry detergent | Drop off items at a local Goodwill location |
| Deseret Industries | Household items, furniture, and clothing | Visit their website to find a drop-off location near you |
One major organization in Utah that is frequently in need of new or gently used items is The Road Home. They are currently seeking donations of towels, underwear, laundry detergent and other hygiene essentials. To see a full list of their current needs and find convenient drop-off locations, visit their website.
Another organization in Utah that is always in need of extra hands is the Utah Food Bank. There are plenty of ways families can get involved throughout the year. If your kids are 6 years or older, consider signing up for a one-hour food sorting shift on Monday nights or Saturday afternoons. For a family-friendly activity that’s perfect for all ages, you can help by delivering or decorating food boxes.
A wonderful way for your family to share some joy and connect with older generations is by visiting a nursing home or care facility. Before you go, be sure to call the facility to inquire about their specific needs and any guidelines for visitors. Many places welcome volunteers to sing, play games or even just spend time chatting with the residents.
Whether it’s a solo project or a group initiative, there are always opportunities to help clean and beautify your neighborhood. Spend an afternoon picking up litter at the local park, or get involved in a tree-planting event.
Here’s a fun one if you’ve got a family full of animal lovers. The Humane Society of Utah, Best Friends Animal Society and other local shelters offer many volunteer and service opportunities that are family-friendly. You can make blankets for pets in need, host a food and supply drive or even sign up to help out at an upcoming community event like Strut Your Mutt.
Sometimes, making a real difference in someone’s life is as simple as offering them a little warmth and comfort during tough times. One of the easiest ways your family can help is by collecting and donating cozy, high-quality blankets to those in need — whether it’s refugees, hospital patients or even the sweet elderly neighbor down the street.
“Helping others is a core value at Minky Couture. Through their Heart of Minky program, the company donates 30,000 blankets every year to newborn intensive care units across the country. Recently, Minky Couture also made a $1 million pledge to support the new NICU at Primary Children’s Hospital — and you can help them reach this goal.”
When you order a Minky blanket, you can choose to add a small donation (as little as $1) to your purchase. It’s a simple, meaningful way to make a big impact with just a small gesture. As a result, Minky Couture will donate the funds to support the new NICU at Primary Children’s Hospital. You can be a part of this important mission by choosing to add a small donation to your Minky blanket purchase.
Strengthening family bonds doesn’t require an expensive vacation or extravagant activities. One of the most effective ways to bring your family closer together is through service. By getting involved in your community and making a positive impact, you can create lasting memories and strengthen your relationships with your loved ones.
Benefits of Family Volunteering
- Increased marital and family satisfaction
- Improved parenting and conflict resolution
- Shared experiences and values
- Fosters bonding between parents and children
With countless opportunities to serve others, there’s never been a better time to get involved in your community and make a difference.
