First, serve Volunteer work with our grandchildren fills the mind and the spirit By Samantha CleaVer E aCh ViSit with our grandChildren brings something new, whether it’s an insight into the mind of a 6-year-old, an in-depth discussion of an animated movie or the start of a new tradition. One of those traditions is volunteering. Setting aside time to do volunteer work with our grandkids—whether we’re connecting to a local organization, giving to a project that demonstrates our values or simply looking for new ways to fill a Saturday afternoon—teaches them new skills and introduces them to the joys and responsibilities of compassion. Along the way, expect to learn something yourself. Here’s how five grands connected with their grandkids—and the world—one volunteer day at a time. 36 GRAND NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2008