Volunteering: Education Outside the Classroom Winston Churchill
is famously quoted as saying that, while we make a living by
what we get, we make a life by what we give. An important
learning opportunity for students exists outside of the
classroom, an experience that some experts say teaches both
lessons that are essential for a happy life and skills necessary
for a successful living—the experience of community
volunteering. Jenny Friedman, the executive director of Doing
Good Together (www.doinggoodtogether.com) works every day to
inspire, encourage and equip families to volunteer together.
“There are enormous benefits for kids and parents who get
involved in community service,” Friedman explains. “In addition
to the good that it does in the community, volunteerism can
build both academic skills and self esteem in young people.
Ultimately, it tells our youth that they matter and can make a
difference in the world around them.” “Research shows when teens
volunteer, they are two-to-three times more likely to