Service projects are a good way to show our care for others. They can be considered a type of almsgiving. One popular project with teens and younger children is yardwork for the elderly. There might be some leaves left from the fall. Or fallen branches from winter storms. Or just some spring cleanup needed. An elderly neighbor will appreciate any help you can give.
Consider working with a senior ministry in your neighborhood. They will often contact the senior citizens who need help and you can provide the youth labor. Doing a "yard blitz" where a large group do five or six yards in a day is fun.
Your elderly neighbors will enjoy the company as much as they do getting their leaves raked. Make sure you spend a little time talking to them also. This will help youth understand how much we need each other, not just for work, but also for companionship.
Related Ideas
Corporal Works of Mercy
Doing yardwork for the elderly could be considered "visiting the sick" from the Corporal Works of Mercy. See some more ideas.
Visit a Nursing Home
Visiting a nursing home can be a meaningful activity for children and teens during Lent. But it can also be uncomfortable for children, young and old, who are not used to visiting with senior citizens. They seem to have so little in common. But in fact, there are some easy ways to break the ice.
Service Projects for Younger Kids
Is your group too young for this? Check out this list of service projects for the very young.
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