Powerful Ways for Teens to Volunteer

Things Teenagers Can Do to Make a Difference

May 17, 2009 Reece Manley

The need to advocate teen volunteering is clear as a study shows dropping rates of volunteer undertakings by those aged 15 to 18.

Many people are unaware of the urgent needs for volunteers in their communities. Because the majority of people live above the poverty line, with healthy, sound bodies and the majority of have adequate incomes, they do not know the fears those less fortunate face. There has always been a need for help, however, the economic crisis has made demands even more desperate.

It's unfortunate then that the article compiled by Andy Markowitz "Study Shows Downturn in Volunteering By Teenagers" (The Chronicle of Philanthropy, April 23, 2009) indicates teenagers are spending less and less time contributing their efforts toward the common good.

Libraries Represent a Great Opportunity for Volunteers

Volunteering not only represents the opportunity to fill the need of the agency receiving the time, it rewards the volunteer with skills and values for a life time. Here are a few ideas for teenagers who may have time on their hands and the benefits that come from it.

Volunteer to read to children at the local library. Contact a local library and asks for the volunteer coordinator. He or she will be able to connect teenagers with the right opportunity. Volunteers learn patience, social interaction skills and a feeling of contributing to learning.

Volunteer to read for the blind at a local library or by visiting the United Way and entering a local zip code for specific information. Again, most libraries maintain a volunteer coordinator or a community relations director.

Another source for volunteering is to contact a local food bank and asks what their greatest needs are currently. Then simply visit neighbors and ask for donations of the needed food stuffs. This teaches leadership, organizational skills and empathy for those in need.

Animal shelters are always in need of volunteers. Teenagers may contact a local animal shelter and ask for the volunteer coordinator. Teens learn compassion, time management, emotional growth and practical care taking skills.

The Elderly and the Homeless are Groups in Need

The elderly represent a group badly in need of help from outside sources. Teenagers will find "adopting" an elderly person brings immediate rewards from personal growth and learning to make emotional bonds with those different than their traditional peer group. To learn more, simply call a retirement community or, again, visit United Way.

Soup kitchens and other homeless programs represent an increasing need for services caused by the recession of 2008. Current resources are stretched to the limit and volunteers are needed to help with everything from food preparation, food service and clerical skills. Almost any older teenager will find a welcoming coordinator by referring to Homeless Shelters in the yellow pages or contacting a local church.

Speaking of churches, synagogue or other houses of faith, these organizations have strong needs for volunteers for their community ministries. A call to the local pastor or ministries coordinator will bring a flood of opportunities.

Opening one's mind to the concept of volunteering brings unlimited opportunities. The value may best be summed up by a quote from the United Way website by Bill Morrison , "Volunteering has given me the most valuable memories of my life." Along with those memories will come lifelong skills and the satisfaction of having contributed to the common good.

The copyright of the article Powerful Ways for Teens to Volunteer in Parenting Teens is owned by Reece Manley. Permission to republish Powerful Ways for Teens to Volunteer in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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