How they are participating

Volunteering is a great way to teach children about helping others and giving back to the community. First, decide whether you're interested in a one time project or a more long-term commitment. Then, explain to the children exactly what to expect. Be enthusiastic and explain why the job is important. While Bethlehem Haven doesn't permit children under the age of 12 to volunteer on site, there are still plenty of ways to help. WAYS KIDS CAN HELP BETHLEHEM HAVEN: • Collect items for our residents such as shampoos & soap, toothbrushes, towels, nightgowns, etc. You may wish to do a special drive around a holiday season or work the drive into a scavenger hunt. Visit our website at www.bethlehemhaven.org for a list of needs. • Donate special treats for our ladies. Have your child pick out one item each time you go to the store. Fresh fruit, snack bars or even homemade treats are great. • Prepare food for the shelter. A number of opportunities exist to prepare lunch or dinner for the residents. If you cannot do an entire meal you may consider making a dessert, providing special snack bags, or donating a bagel & juice breakfast for the women. • Send holiday cards to our ladies. You could also include a little treat such as candy or cookies as the residents enjoy the sweets. • Make placemats or centerpieces for our dining rooms, especially seasonal ones. We also have bulletin boards where we would love to display "artwork" to brighten up the space. • Participate in the annual Highmark Walk for A Healthy Community. Bethlehem Haven is one of the participating organizations. We use this walk to increase awareness and raise funds. Kids 5 and up can walk a few miles, and you can push little ones in a stroller. • Put together activity boxes. This is a great way for kids to show their creative sides. They can decorate shoe boxes and fill them with a deck of cards, small games, puzzle book, etc. • Participate in a fundraiser, either with the Haven or on your own. Have a penny drive (“Pennies for Haven”) and we can supply the containers. Hold a car wash, bake sale, lemonade stand, or flea market. Hold a marathon event with pledges donated such as a walk-a-thon, dance-a-thon, jump rope-a -thon, etc. BE CREATIVE!!! Contact Amber Jackson at 412-391-1348 x224 or ajackson@bethlehemhaven.org if you would like to develop a project for the Haven.