How Can I Help My Teenager Start Volunteer Work?

Published on June 5, 2023 by Angie J

Hey there! So, you might be wondering why it's important to get a volunteer job in high school. Well, besides the fact that it feels good to help others, volunteering can actually be a pretty big deal when it comes to college and job applications. Colleges want to see that you're well-rounded and committed to making a positive impact on your community, and volunteering is a great way to show that. Plus, volunteering can help you develop important skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork that will come in handy down the road. So, why not start looking for a volunteer job that aligns with your interests and passions? You never know where it might take you!

Get ahead of the game: 9th grade is a good time to start

If your kid is entering 9th grade soon, now's a great time to start thinking about getting a volunteer job! It's a good idea to plan ahead and maybe start looking for opportunities around the summer before 9th grade, so you have plenty of time to get everything organized. The earlier you start, the better chance you'll have of finding an opportunity that fits your child's interests and schedule.

Where to start: Tips for finding volunteer jobs for 9th graders

But with so many volunteer opportunities out there, it can be challenging to figure out where to begin. Here are some tips to help you and your child find the perfect volunteer job:

Consider your child's interests

Does your child have a particular passion or interest, such as helping animals or working with kids? Look for volunteer jobs that align with their interests, as this can help keep them motivated and engaged.

Check with local organizations

Nonprofit organizations, schools, libraries, and community centers are excellent places to check for volunteer opportunities. Reach out to them and ask if they have any openings or know of any upcoming events where volunteers are needed.

Ask friends and family

Word-of-mouth is a great way to find volunteer jobs. Ask friends, family members, or colleagues if they know of any organizations or events that need volunteers.

Look online

There are many websites dedicated to volunteering, such as VolunteerMatch.org and Idealist.org, where you can search for opportunities based on location, interest, and time commitment.

Attend volunteer fairs

Many communities host volunteer fairs where organizations and charities come together to recruit volunteers. Attending these events can be an excellent way to learn about the different opportunities available in your area.

Options to consider: Age limit

When you are planning, it's important to keep in mind that many organizations and facilities have age limits, typically accepting volunteers who are 16 years old or older. For example, many medical facilities have age limits for volunteers, typically accepting volunteers who are 16 years old or older.

However, there are plenty of alternative options for 9th graders who are interested in volunteering and making a difference in their community. For instance, animal shelters are often in need of volunteers and they usually do not have an age limit. Working with animals can be a great way for 9th graders to learn about responsibility, empathy, and compassion.

Making volunteering a fun and safe experience for your child

Finding a volunteer job for your 9th grader can be an exciting and rewarding experience for both you and your child. By considering their interests, checking with local organizations, asking friends and family, looking online, and attending volunteer fairs, you can help your child find the perfect volunteer job that aligns with their passions and interests. So, why not start your search today and help your child make a difference in the community?

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