I get many calls and emails from teens and parents who want or need community service hours. I love those calls because I believe we all have something to contribute and we should share our talents to make the world a better place.
The Teen Toolbox sponsors two annual service opportunities to raise awareness about the issues faced by youth aging out of foster care and to show them we care:
- Pack A Purse Drive – collect and donate purses and personal hygiene items for teen girls in foster care (December)
- Pack A Backpack Drive – collect and donate backpacks and personal hygiene items for teen boys in foster care (May)
At other times of the year I recommend that young people select a service opportunity that complements their interests and strengths. Not only can they make a positive impact on society, but meaningful community service opportunities allow them to develop valuable social and professional skills as well.
After self-assessment, my next recommendation is to look for opportunities in their own neighborhood. Beyond the obvious, this also helps decrease the transportation and scheduling issues that could arise and prevent a teen from serving.
Top five places to volunteer in your own neighborhood:
- School
- Recreation/Community Center
- Child Care Center
- Religious Institution
- Library
Check out these websites for additional volunteer opportunities:
Washington DC Metropolitan Area
Volunteer Maryland/Volunteer Centers
Youth Organizations
National Foster Care Organizations
COMING SOON a new ebook from Nicki Sanders, Chief Visionary Officer of The Teen Toolbox.
“YOUth Can Change the World: Community Service, Leadership, and Success”
Nicki Sanders, MSW, Chief Visionary Officer
The Teen Toolbox provides youth portfolio development and civic engagement and academic empowerment opportunities to help teens set goals for life after high school and create a road map to reach those goals through its PACKAGED FOR SUCCESS™ Programs.