Stretch-N-Grow Super Heroes

If you want to be a superhero in your everyday life, one of the best ways to do it is by getting engaged in the community. According to Feeding America, there are multiple benefits for families who volunteer together. These include having more time together, increased self-esteem for children and teens, longevity, and increased emotional wellness. Want to get the kids in your life engaged with giving back? Recruit them for your version of the superhero league!  

Here are 3 superhero missions for your league of heroes to do for the community. 

1. Support Fluffy Sidekicks: Many animal shelters would love for people to come by and walk some of their dogs, play with some of the kittens, and spend time with the animals there. It is good for the overall happiness of the animals, and potential pets have an increased likelihood of getting adopted if they have regular human interaction. Families can make sure that all the awesome sidekicks and super pets of the world can find loving homes by spending time with them. 

2. Keep the neighbors strong by helping with a community garden: Many neighborhoods are in food deserts, where fresh produce and nutrient dense foods are hard to come by in stores. Community gardens are part of the solution to that, but they often are underfunded and understaffed. Getting plugged in and volunteering in a community garden can help kids learn about where food comes from and how to grow it themselves while also helping out people in your city or town.  

3. Serve a Senior Hero: Some of the coolest superheroes live together in retirement communities, assisted living homes, and nursing care. There are opportunities to spend time with them playing games, making music and art with them, and much more! Not only do the seniors benefit from the company, but the kids meet new people and learn new skills. Volunteering at a senior community is a great way for superheroes to connect across generations! 

What are some of your favorite ways to be community super heroes?