One family’s journey into volunteer work.

Our contributor, Karina, shares how an act of kindness years ago led to her family’s journey into volunteer work.
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I don't remember a single Christmas gift I ever got as a child, but there is ​one Christmas that I've never forgotten. I wasn't grateful at all back then, but now I truly realize the kindness that was bestowed upon me. My siblings and I were given gifts from a family at a local church who sponsored our Christmas. Times were rough, so without their generosity, I'm not sure we would have had much of a holiday. I didn’t say thank you, and it's one of my many regrets.

Holidays are so important aren't they? People have traditions they hold close and protect, and perhaps this is in part, the reason things like Black Friday shopping can be so divisive. Holidays are for family, just as it was years ago when strangers came together for me, and mine.
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​Is there a point at which our family traditions and values can mix with selfless acts of kindness? My husband and I think there absolutely is. This is why we involve our children in our passion to give back and serve our community.

I heard about Tomorrow's Heroes Today a few months ago here, and knew instantly that I had found something special. I've been involved in volunteer work before, but this was different. Our children could get involved too. They could be hands-on little heroes. With Tomorrow's Heroes Today, they've donated items needed for foster animals and made cards for veterans, among other kid-friendly community service activities. These events have allowed them to get involved, but more importantly, they've helped sprout family discussions. We don't take them anywhere without explaining who it will benefit, and why we should show compassion and hope for them.

What I especially love about Tomorrows Heroes Today is that the focus is on children and on the future. This isn't a way for parents to pat themselves on the back for raising kind children. This is a way for children to learn, grow, give back, and give hope to others, while showing that there is hope for a wonderful tomorrow.

There are many things I hope my children will never have to go through. I hope our family will never fall on hard times, and that we aren't in a situation where we need strangers to sponsor our Christmas. But then again, I think maybe a Christmas like that is just what so many may need to put things in perspective. A complete selfless act by strangers is something most people would never forget. I can’t wait for the day our family can offer this level of help, because I know it would fill my little heroes with joy to spread such kindness to others. 

​-Karina
​Karina is a stay at home mother to young twins who love to explore the outdoors and all that San Diego has to offer. She loves music, crafting and is a bit of an old soul. Most of all she loves her family and has a passion for instilling a love for volunteering in her children. She loves the hands on, family based aspect of Tomorrow's Heroes Today and is thrilled to be a part of it. Karina writes about her adventures in motherhood for San Diego Moms Blog. Karina, her husband Josh, and their twins look forward to a bright future led by today's children.