No time for PTA? Here's what volunteering at your kids' school can really look like

SALT LAKE CITY — We know you've seen the PTA at your school out advertising for events or looking for more volunteers. For a lot of us, committing to the parent volunteer organizations can seem daunting.

Abbie Richman is a parent volunteer from Rosamond Elementary. She shared what the commitment can really look like when you give your time to your kids' school.

The PTA Does More Than Fundraisers

When you think of the PTA, fundraising might be the first thing that comes to mind. But Richman emphasized that fundraising is really just a means to an end.

"We are those things. We do the fundraisers because we have to," Richman said. "Really what PTA is, is we are support for the kids, for the parents, for the teachers, the administration... We kind of bridge the gap."

The money raised by the PTA goes right back into the school community through programs, activities and opportunities that wouldn't otherwise exist.

"At my kids' elementary, we grant the school money for field trips," Richman explained. "All field trips are from the PTA."

They also support enrichment opportunities and school-wide programs.

"We have art programs, literacy programs, a Holly Jolly Shop, Kindness Week, STEAM night," Richman explained. "We do everything."

Parent Involvement Helps Fill Important Gaps

Financial support does matter, but Richman said what's more valuable is parents' presence. Schools benefit when adults are willing to contribute their time, energy and support. Parents can pitch in organizing events, helping teachers or volunteering during activities to build a stronger sense of community at the school.

Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think

Richman said the biggest barrier to entry is just knowing where to start.

"First off, just join," Richman said. "If you don't know who's involved with your PTA, ask the office. They will be able to tell you."

Most schools have people ready and willing to help new volunteers find a place that fits their schedule and interests.

There's No One-Size-Fits-All Commitment

You might assume the PTA is a huge time commitment, but Richman said that's just not true.

"It's whatever you can give," she emphasized.

There are different levels of participation within the PTA. Board members and committee leaders are at one level.

"They're the ones planning everything," Richman explained.

Another level is volunteers who sign up to help where they're needed.

"Those volunteers are also really vital," she said. "You have to have them."

If you just don't have time to volunteer in person, Richman said you can still help out. Even the small contributions make a difference.

"You know what? I'm too busy to come. I will send the napkins," she said. "We need that. We need the parents that are like, 'I will send items in.'"

You Don't Need Special Talents to Make a Difference

Many parents think they don't have anything to offer, but Richman said just being there is important.

"You don't have to have a specific talent," she said. "Your kids see that it's important to you, and then school's important to them."

This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL's editorial standards are upheld.