American democracy has been built upon a tradition of service by citizens to their communities. This can start at any age. Talk with children about a need they have noticed that they would like to work on. Perhaps they are concerned about litter in the park, or homeless people living on the streets, or stray animals. Then identify volunteer opportunities with nonprofit organizations and community agencies offering services in this area of concern. Have the children pick a volunteer opportunity and arrange to follow-up.

— Kristin Ritzau in Practicing Democracy with Children by Kristin Ritzau, Mary Ann Brussat