While it would be amazing if everyone could foster or adopt children, that just isn’t possible. But just because you cannot personally take in a child, it does not mean that you are powerless to help children in foster care. There are many opportunities for you to get involved. Here are a few to get you started:
1.Become a CASA volunteer
Court-appointed special advocates represent foster care children in court after getting to know them. They help ensure that the child’s needs are met and that they are placed in the best possible homes. To learn more about how you can fill this very important role, visit the CASA website.
2. Volunteer with AFFEC
AFFEC has a variety of volunteer positions in event planning, marketing, fundraising, mentoring and more. Volunteers can be local or remote and volunteer regularly or on an as-needed basis. If you are interested, apply here.
3. Donate to Luggage of Love
Luggage of Love provides suitcases, duffel bags, and comfort care packages to children in foster care. The nonprofit was started after the founder realized foster children often had to carry their belongings in trash bags, and she wanted to give them their dignity back. You can donate pre-made care packages, give back via Amazon Smile, or donate luggage directly.
4. Donate to Adopt Together
AdoptTogether is a crowdfunding platform that helps families pay for their adoptions. You can make a one-time or monthly donation here.
5. Become a Big with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Children benefit greatly from having a positive adult role model in their lives. As a “big” with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, you will commit to taking a child on outings or accompanying them to your workplace to allow them to build professional relationships.
6. Complete a service project with TogetherWeRise
Need a team building activity for your company? Together We Rise can help you put together a day of building bikes, skateboards, comfort kits, or birthday boxes for foster children. Visit the website to learn more.
Fostering and adopting aren’t the only ways to make a difference in the lives of foster children. Volunteering with these organizations can help you leave lasting impacts on young people and help them grow to be strong, capable adults.
