They could have been hanging out with their friends or playing computer games, but instead a group of Dunedin children are dedicating some of their school holiday to help others.
Volunteering Otago's three-day school holiday programme for 10- to 13-year-olds emphasised fun as well as giving children a taste of volunteering, youth volunteering co-ordinator Lora Johnston said.
A dozen pupils are taking part in the programme, which will be held next week for 14- to 17-year-olds.
About three pupils missed out on the programme, which was advertised through schools, because it was full, but they would be able to take part next time.
About half the children had volunteered in some form in the past, often through their church, she said.
Yesterday, they helped with weeding at Shetland St Community Gardens and visited the SPCA to help out.
On Wednesday, they baked biscuits and muffins, dropping them off at Presbyterian Support's foodbank, where they learnt about the charity's work.
Counselling service Youthline visited for confidence-building games and activities designed to help break down stereotypes and give children more insight into each other's lives.
To cap the week, today the children would visit Toroa Radio to record a two-hour slot about their experiences on the volunteering programme.
Ms Johnston (27), from Winnipeg, Canada, said she enjoyed working with New Zealand children.
Sisters Antonia (11) and Alex (13) McNair, who both attend Kaikorai Valley College, said they most enjoyed the baking, and the opportunity to make new friends.
