Volunteering at school is an age-old practice. It is something that has been passed down from generation to generation. But volunteering today is very different than in years past. Because of budget cuts, especially in California (but everywhere else too) parents are asked to do more, give more, and be more! If you’re lucky enough to be at a school that has involved parents, that’s great; but what if you and your spouse are working out of the house full time and can’t give your time? Don’t get me wrong, the school wants you to give money – they always need that. But can you also do something else? At our school, we call it the three T’s. Give us your time, talents and trea$ures!
There are plenty of parents who work full time and can’t be in the classroom, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have something essential to offer to the school community. I know a mom who owns a bakery in the neighborhood and allows classes to come do a field trip to learn about the neighborhood business. It’s free for the class and she is able to provide an amazing experience for the children…and cupcakes are on the house! There’s a dad who owns a video/media company. During the holiday performances, he recorded several classes and gave copies of the DVDs to share on the class websites.
Don’t underestimate the talents that you can bring to a classroom or school. Maybe you’re a lawyer or public relations expert or grant writer in your day job. Use your expertise and resources to help the school. Perhaps you can give guidance to the PTA or booster club with issues that come up. For you, picking up the phone and making a simple call seems like the easiest thing in the world, but to someone who doesn’t have the connection it seems impossible. There are ways to be involved and help while still maintaining a full time job. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you are “less than” because you give differently. What you can do is appreciated and can make a HUGE difference.
In the end, it’s all about the kids – like it has been since school started. Giving them opportunities to become well-rounded individuals who are curious and love learning will set them on a path to be life long learners! Do what you can, share what you know, and be open to all of it! Share with me in the comment section, some of the things you do to help at your school!
About the Author: Sarah Barrett is a former teacher and small business owner with an MA in Education who has traded in her full-time career to dedicate her time and energy to fundraising for her neighborhood school. She has just published her first book, A Mom’s Guide to School Fundraising, which is available on Kindle or paperback through Amazon.
For more information about Sarah or the book, go to www.amomsguidetoschoolfundraising.com
You can also find A moms Guide to School Fundraising on Facebook
*********************************
Macaroni Kid Pasadena Giveaway:
WHAT: Your own copy of A Mom's Guide to School Fundraising on Kindle
Here's how to win:
• Make a comment below and tell us your favorite fundraising activity (selling candy bars, attending a casino night, etc.)
• Bonus Entries: Refer a new subscriber to Macaroni Kid Pasadena. Make sure they include your name in the "How Did You Hear About Us" box for credit (2 bonus entries). "Friend" isn't going to help you get those extra entries!

• One winner will be selected using Random.org on Tuesday, March 5 and notified via email. If we cannot reach the winner by Thursday, March 7, 2013 at 10 a.m., we will choose another winner. Must be 18 or older to enter. You must be an e-newsletter subscriber to be eligible for giveaways. If you are not currently receiving Macaroni Kid Pasadena via email, click the sign-up tab on the site and choose your preferences. One entry per family please.
