But you hardly have time to brush your teeth. Sound familiar?

There is a way to find time to spend with your family and work on issues that concern you: volunteer together. Here’s how to choose a family project:

• Make a list of all the volunteering family members do now. Would other family members like to join in?

• What interests family members? Encourage everyone to list at least one concern. If several family members share the same concern, you’ve got a great place to start.

• Then, make a list of the kinds of things family members like to do. Make two lists—one for “Things We Know How to Do” and one for “Things We Would Like to Learn How to Do.” Make sure you have something listed for each member of the family.

It may take you several weeks to come up with your lists, but then you’re ready to start volunteering.

Call several organizations. Ask if there is some way you can help as a family. Possibilities might include visiting a nursing home or helping out at an animal shelter. Don’t get discouraged if the first call doesn’t work out.

You might want to start with a one-time activity. Instead of making dinner every week at the shelter, sign up to paint a bedroom.

Take your volunteer project seriously. This is a way to show your kids the importance of giving back. You’ll pass on your values and help your children learn new skills at the same time.

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