While I enjoy a few days of R&R, here is a timely re-post from the start of Spring last year…
Spring officially began [this week.]. As the temperatures warm up, windows open, trees bud and flowers bloom, thoughts turn to…
Spring cleaning?
Yes! Why not make it a family affair wrapped around charitable giving?
First, A Family Meeting
Enlist the whole family in a one day “Spring for Charity” event. First, have a family pow-wow about the importance of having a clean and organized home, what it means to have a giving heart, why some people may need help from others.
As a family, choose what charities you will support. Consider letting the children help choose an organization that specifically helps other children, so they know that toys and games are going to someone like them. Being part of the selection process will increase their commitment to doing the work. Then circle a date on the calendar and agree that no other activities will be scheduled that day.
Be Prepared
Plan to start the day off with a family breakfast and a family to-do list. Be sure to have extra heavy duty trash bags on hand, some boxes for books, games, household items, and enough cleaning supplies that everyone can be kept busy. Have some family break time pre-scheduled for snacks and water or juice and to check progress. Then, turn up the music, open the windows and go!
Games, Toys, Books
The children can go through their games and toys and set aside what they no longer play with. They should check to make sure all the pieces and parts are in tact. They can also check shelves or closets for books, movies, or board games that they’ve outgrown. HERE are some organizations to keep in mind for toy donations.
Clothing
Everyone in the household (except for the very young), can look at each item in their closet or dresser. What has been outgrown? What doesn’t match anything else? What is no longer in style? If it is late enough in the season, each person can also go through scarves, mittens and boots from the past winter that can be donated. If a clothing item is clean and in good shape, HERE are some organizations who would be happy to receive them.
Household Items
Mom and Dad can go through kitchen storage, the linen closet, the basement and the garage to see what household items can be given away. We often buy a new household item without getting rid of the original because it still works. If it does, but you aren’t using it, give it a new home! Not sure where to donate? HERE is a list to help you.
What About A Garage Sale?
Another alternative is to gather all of these items together and plan a family garage sale. Spring brings out the bargain hunters, especially on a nice day. Your family can agree to donate and funds raised to a local school organization, or senior center, or perhaps your church. Need some help in planning? HERE are 101 Garage Sale Tips from FrugalFrog.
Other helpful resources include:
- H&R Block offers these tips about tax deductions for charitable giving.
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB) shares this advice for donating used items.
- NASCO (National Association of State Charity Officials) provides contact information for each state’s office responsible for charitable organization regulation
Say Thanks
At the end of the day, don’t forget to thank everyone for pitching in. Take time to reflect on the difference each person made. Review what good will come out of the family donations and what a difference the items will make to children, parents, homeless, etc.
There are many other ways to combine the chore of Spring cleaning with family together time while instilling an appreciation in your children for helping others less fortunate.
What ideas can you suggest to combine Spring cleaning with Spring giving?
Why not start this new family tradition in your home?
