Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the name chickadeeds come from?
We are named after the Maine State Bird, the chickadee.
Did you know the chickadee is “known to be active, loyal, social, and at the nucleus when many multiple bird types fly together?”
- Excerpt from The Sibley Guide to Birds
How much does it cost to attend an event?
chickadeeds events are free.
For some events we will encourage participants to bring supplies to donate or lend, such as a wheelbarrow or gloves.
Donations of any size keep our events free and open to the public.
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
Our events are designed for families. We welcome all ages but are best suited for school-aged children, ages 5 - 18.
Young children and guardians need to stick together throughout our events.
Why chickadeeds?
To think differently about our existing systems, how to affect change, and how to involve children in the conversation.
Challenges:
Volunteerism in the US peaked in 2003 and has been steadily declining since (Bloomberg)
Traditional avenues for family service (churches, synagogues, scouts, social leagues) have declined with no private=public sector transition plan
Nonprofit volunteer offerings typically have a 14+ age requirement due to liability, capacity, and resource scarcity
Values-based family activities are not easily accessible in today’s busy, distracted world
Who are chickadeeds’ partners?
chickadeeds partners with local nonprofit organizations in Southern Maine! We ask each nonprofit partner: “What is your biggest need?”. Then we design a 2-hour inclusive (kid-friendly) service event together.
We give our non-profit partner the platform at every event to educate our community on the WHY of the work and share how our volunteers can support this cause year-round outside of our events.
chickadeeds enhances our events with extension activities featuring with local sponsors, artists, and host partners for every event.
What is the significance of the bandana?
We distribute complimentary volunteer bandanas at our events as a symbol of our gratitude and to commemorate the feeling of collective action.
chickadeeds’ logo and bandana design were created by Board member Rachel Adams of Tachee.