Volunteering

For some of us, the hustle and bustle of parenting is exacerbated by volunteering. But I think that’s a good thing. Volunteering at school, at kids’ sports, or by giving back to the community helps us stay connected to the things that truly matter in life, and can feel so rewarding.

Many, if not most, kids’ sporting activities are not-for-profit. This means that any fees parents pay to register their kids usually go to cover hard costs, like renting gyms or paying for ice time, uniforms, referee fees, medals, banquets, etc. The people who actually run the coaching and book the games, etc. are very often volunteers. Parents like you and me who either have knowledge, or just a love for the game, and share their time that way.

When my kids participate in rep sports, which is usually a 10-month or yearlong endeavour, I like to volunteer my time and skills to help the team or the club, depending on their needs. Lately, this has come in the form of providing social media and writing support for the organizations that run the sports teams, as that is my area of expertise. I usually never learn all the rules of the games my girls play, so I would be of no use on the court, rink, or field, but I am more than adept at professionally representing organizations online and in print articles in local news publications, so that is what I do.

If you’ve wanted to volunteer to assist your kids’ sports teams or organizations, think about what it is that you do well – it could be what you do for a job, or something you have a passion for – and offer up some time.

I guarantee the offer of help will be well-received!

Natalie Rea

Mom to two amazing daughters - a feisty teen in middle school, and an ambitious young adult in university. Originally from Montréal's West Island, I now explore the beautiful trails of Hamilton, Ontario. Proud Canadian, vegetarian, dog-adopter, & bleeding-heart liberal. I smile a lot because I have Resting Bitch Face.