Volunteering Strengthens Mother-Daughter Bond, Increases Self-Confidence in Teens Local chapter of the National Charity League now accepting applications from North Phoenix parents and teens

By Amy Wolff
Photo Courtesy of the National Charity League, Arrowhead Chapter

Raising kids who are philanthropically minded isn’t easy. However, instilling beliefs in teens about giving back to others in the community will help us build a more thoughtful, kinder, more considerate group of humans. That’s the goal of the National Charity League (NCL), Arrowhead Chapter.

Charity work is an integral part of life for mother and daughter Kari Turner-Snavely and Kamryn Turner of Anthem. They have been involved with NCL for six years. Kamryn, who is now a senior at Boulder Creek High School, started in NCL when she was in 7th grade. Her older sister, Marley, who is a junior at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, joined at the same time. When the local mom and two sisters joined, their goal was to spend more intentional time together while being able to serve others.

“We first heard about NCL Arrowhead from a friend who was an active member with her daughter,” says Turner-Snavely. “During the new member drive, I reached out for more information to understand what NCL was about. I met such a diverse, dynamic group of inspiring women, who welcomed us to the chapter, I knew we would benefit by being a part of this organization.”
“As we round out our time at NCL, I hope the experience inspires my daughters to continue their social awareness and responsibility, and expand their leadership, confidence and capabilities,” Turner-Snavely adds.

NCL has many chapters across Arizona, providing mothers and daughters opportunities to volunteer with dozens of organizations. The group also helps young ladies become strong, independent leaders who appreciate the value of giving back to those in need. The Arrowhead Chapter of NCL has more than 100 mothers and daughters who are focused on the organization’s three pillars – philanthropy, leadership and culture.

“My daughters and I have loved our special time spent together volunteering, attending meetings and listening to engaging guest speakers thanks to NCL,” says Turner-Snavely. “We have been so fortunate to have made friendships that will last past our time as active NCL members. Marley has continued her philanthropic efforts while at college and I have no doubt Kamryn will do the same at the University of Arizona next year.”

Volunteering not only gives Turner-Snavely and her daughters one-on-one time together, research shows that volunteering also boosts self-confidence and happiness in teens and teaches social and networking skills. These skills are invaluable for today’s youth as they prepare to shape the future.
“When others ask if they should join NCL, I always say ‘do it!’ As busy as we all are with school, work, clubs, sports and friends, it is so important to carve out dedicated time to spend with each other doing something that fulfills our hearts and minds,” Turner-Snavely adds.

NCL applications are currently being accepted from women with daughters in 6th through 9th grades. The Arrowhead Chapter is comprised of members who reside in North Phoenix and the West Valley.

The Annual NCL Membership Drive takes place from Oct. 1, 2021 – Jan. 15, 2022. For more information, visit arrowhead.nationalcharityleague.org or send an email to [email protected].