I wouldn't recommend it with a group but for those looking for an idea with your own children...The Salvation Army Christmas kettle is a great opportunity. We did it last year with our 20month old. She wore her Santa hat and rang her jingle bells and waved at people. Most of the people would give my daughter their change so she could stand on the chair and put it in the kettle. It kept her busy. Having a cute little kid draws in extra people and money :-)

We did a 2hr shift. Just make sure you choose one of the indoor locations (some are outside in parking lots etc)!

I don't think I would do this with more than 2 kids with 2 adults, so one can take the kids for a walk if they are acting up. We had grandma on standby to come take her home if it was a colossal fail. It went so well we plan to do it annually now.