It takes a lot of time and effort to keep a community running smoothly, and keep its residents safe and happy. One of the best ways a youth group can serve their community is by donating their time to projects that make small, but positive, differences in the places they live. Check out these ideas for creative and beneficial volunteering opportunities you may be able to participate in with your after school youth program members.
Starting the Volunteering Discussion with Youth Group
Consider your time investment before choosing a volunteering activity that fits your group’s interests. Some volunteering activities may require time on a weekly basis, while others may be a one-time opportunity. With your youth group, communicate the goals and ideas they have about volunteering. During the discussion, bring up the benefits of volunteering and donating time and effort to better the community and the lives of the people in it.
It can benefit the group as a whole to have a few different examples of volunteering or community service projects that have been accomplished or need to be accomplished. This will help to get their minds in gear when discussing their goals and involvement.
If you are unsure who to contact to discover potential volunteer activities, start with the following community centers (either by phone or website):
- City Hall
- Library
- Churches
- Non-Profit Organizations
Easy Community Enhancement Volunteering Ideas for Youth Groups
Enhancing the community doesn’t have to mean raising thousands of dollars for a donation, and it doesn’t have to look like a superhero came through and fixed every problem. Making the small, but gradual, differences in any area can truly add value to its citizens. Contact your city hall and ask whether there are any acts of service that your group could perform.
Here are some ideas for youth groups to consider when planning a volunteering day or weekend:
- Donating used books to a local library or homeless shelter
- Painting community fences and park benches
- Clean up or maintain a community garden
- Volunteer to clean up trash at a community event
- Adopt a local highway and clean up trash along the way
For more ideas of ways to serve the community and get some volunteering in with your after school youth program, check out our other blog, “Youth Program Community Service Options”.
