It's no secret that many of our kids are growing up in single-family homes, and that even where both parents are present, responsibilities often prevent them from giving kids the time and attention they crave. Your small group can provide a day of fun and meaningful adult time for those kids, as well as give parents a chance to re-energize so they can enjoy their kids upon their return home.

Identify kids you know could really use more of an adult presence. Take a day as a group, and treat those kids to a fun day of activities. Consider taking them to a ball game, or an amusement park, or the mall -- whatever will be most appropriate and enjoyable for your particular kids.

Be sure to get parents' permission first. Be very specific in letting parents know where you’ll be, and what times you expect to be there -- and keep to that itinerary to the best of your ability.

As much as possible, let kids choose what activities you'll do as you go out together. Use adult discretion as you need to, though. Also, be sure to bring along plenty of healthy snacks for you and the kids. You're all going to need some extra energy today!

Your own group's children may be able to help here as well, by being friends to them and/or accompanying them to activities. But don't let your kids do all the work, if you bring them along. Make a point of being a friend to these children. And that will mean getting involved in the activities. Most children don't want to just sit around and talk, but you should have plenty time to talk "on the fly."

Who knows? In some cases, this one-time activity could lead to long-term mentoring relationships by your group members, where they'll commit to pouring their lives into these kids' lives.

After your big day, take time to reflect as a group:

• What was the most fun part of today for you personally? What was the biggest challenge?

• What insights did you gain into these kids’ lives? Into how kids think in general?

• Would you be interested in doing something like this again, or making a longer-term commitment to one or more of these kids? Explain.