The Santa Claus Parade happens each and every year thanks to thousands of dedicated volunteers. They do it cause they love it. That’s what volunteering is all about. Giving your time for a cause that means something to you can happen any time of the year, and it’s something kids can definitely be part of.

Here are just a few ways to keep “giving” spirit alive all year round:

• Go on a grocery-shopping excursion as a family and purchase a collection of dry and canned goods for your local food bank. Deliver the groceries together so you can see what a food bank looks like and learn how it serves your community.

• Set aside a small portion of your allowance and/or birthday or holiday season money to donate to the charity of your choice.

• Take an hour or two on the weekend and raid your closets for clothes that can be donated to needy families.

• Have your Mom or Dad contact a senior centre or hospital to see if you can volunteer to serve cookies, play a board game, work on arts and craft projects together, sing a song, take someone for walk, or read a story.

• Ask your teachers or parents about the people in need in your community. Ask how they got into that situation, what can be done to help them. You’ll be surprised just how blessed you feel.

• Volunteer as a family. Whether you register with a non-profit organization or simply participate in an act of kindness together, you’ll see just how “good” giving can feel.

• Organize a school supply drive to help out schools with less fortunate families. You’ll make sure they have the supplies they need to make the school year the best ever!

• Volunteer with your parents at a local animal shelter. You can take dogs for walks, play with the cats or drop off a nice warm blanket or toys for the animals.