After a grueling day that started at 4 a.m. on Wednesday, I volunteered at Dress for Success in the evening.  My 10-year-old daughter asked if she could volunteer with me.  Carli has not accompanied me during my volunteer duties since she was a baby.  I would spread out a blanket in the corner and she would sleep or play–but that was MANY years ago.  Carli has always asked a lot of questions about what I do with the women while I volunteer.  I believe it is good to instill a volunteering mindset while she is young.  So, actually, I was thrilled that she wanted to join me!

I emailed the volunteer manager and she said it would be fine to bring my daughter.  We arrived at 6 p.m. and there were eight other volunteers.  We completed a myriad of tasks for an upcoming fundraising event.  Meanwhile between tasks, my daughter entertained and engaged the other volunteers.  Carli kept a smile on her face no matter what we asked her to do.  Ten year olds are challenging but Carli really made me proud that evening.  I certainly will bring her to other volunteering events, now that I know she really can be helpful and happy at the same time.