Published: October 27, 2026
By: Michelle  Izquierdo
With Thanksgiving around the corner, November is the perfect time to slow down, practice gratitude and show our kids how good it feels to give back. This month, I’m taking you out and about around South Florida while highlighting meaningful opportunities where children and families can make a difference together.
Joshua’s Heart Foundation — Miami-Dade
Joshua’s Heart Foundation is a youth-led nonprofit focused on fighting food insecurity while giving young people opportunities to serve and lead. Families can volunteer through the organization’s food pantry and mobile grocery distributions throughout South Florida.
Volunteers of all ages are welcome, including young children alongside their families. Depending on the event, kids may help sort and pack food, organize supplies and prepare items for distribution.
Our Favorite Part: Joshua’s Heart was founded by a child, making it a wonderful reminder that kids are never too young to make an impact.
Before You Go: Opportunities vary by event, so register in advance and check age requirements. For more information, visit joshuasheart.org.
Humane Society of Broward County — Reading Buddies
Animal lovers will adore the Humane Society of Broward County’s Reading Buddies program. Children ages 6 to 16 can read aloud to adoptable cats and dogs, providing the animals with a calm human presence while practicing their own reading skills and building confidence.
Children reading to cats may sit inside community cat rooms, while those reading to dogs sit outside their kennels.
Our Favorite Part: Kids get to spend time with animals while giving back in a way that feels fun and meaningful. It’s a great option for children who may be new to volunteering.
Before You Go: Advance registration is required, space is limited and parents must supervise. For more information, visit humanebroward.com.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center — Palm Beach County
Families who love the beach can give back through Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s beach cleanup opportunities. Their weekly self-guided cleanup gives families a chance to remove litter while helping protect South Florida’s oceans and marine life.
Our Favorite Part: Kids can see their impact right away as their cleanup bag fills, opening the door to conversations about protecting our beaches and sea turtles.
Before You Go: The Blue Friends cleanup is held Saturday mornings from 8:30–11:30 a.m. Registration is required. For more information, visit marinelife.org.
Grateful at Home: Make a Gratitude Tree
Keep the giving spirit going at home with a family Gratitude Tree. Place a few branches in a vase, cut leaves from fall-colored paper and have each family member write down one thing they’re grateful for each night. Hang the leaves on the branches, and by Thanksgiving, you’ll have a beautiful reminder of everything your family has to be thankful for.
Giving back doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re packing food, reading to a shelter pet or cleaning up the beach, even small acts can show our kids just how much kindness matters.
Michelle Izquierdo is a South Florida mom and content creator sharing family adventures, easy recipes, creative crafts, lifestyle fun and travel. Follow along on Instagram @morewithmichelle.