Volunteering is a great way for high school students to gain experience, build their resumes and give back to their communities. Participating in a volunteer program can also be a rewarding and enriching experience, helping students develop important skills and make new connections. 

If you’re a high school student looking to get involved in a volunteer program, there are many opportunities available to you. Here are some tips for finding and participating in a volunteer program that’s right for you.

Start by thinking about the causes you care about

What issues are important to you? Do you want to help animals, the environment, or community development? For example, if you’re passionate about animal welfare, you could volunteer at a local animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation centre. Or, if you’re interested in environmental conservation, you could volunteer with a local park or nature reserve. Identifying the causes you care about can help you find a volunteer program that aligns with your values and interests.

Research local organisations that offer volunteer opportunities

Many non-profits, charities, and community organisations offer volunteer programs for high school students. You can search online for organisations in your area, or ask your school or community centre for suggestions. For example, your local food bank may have a program for volunteers to help sort and distribute donations, or a hospital may have a program for volunteers to assist with administrative tasks or visit with patients.

Consider the time commitment

Some volunteer programs require a regular commitment, while others are more flexible. Think about your schedule and how much time you’re able to commit to volunteering. Look for programs that fit with your availability. For example, if you’re involved in extracurricular activities or have a part-time job, you may want to look for a volunteer program that only requires a few hours per week.

Get in touch with the organisation to learn more

Once you’ve identified a few programs that interest you, reach out to the organisation to learn more about their volunteer opportunities. Ask about the type of work you’ll be doing, the time commitment, and any training or orientation that’s required. For example, you may need to attend a training session before you can begin volunteering at a hospital, or you may need to complete an online orientation before you can start volunteering at a nature reserve.

Be prepared to commit to the program

Once you’ve found a volunteer program that’s right for you, be prepared to commit to it. Volunteering can be rewarding, but it also requires a certain level of dedication. Be sure to show up for your volunteer shifts on time and give your best effort. For example, if you’re volunteering at a food bank, make sure to arrive at your shift on time and work efficiently to help sort and distribute donations.

High school volunteer programs offer numerous benefits for students. Participating in a volunteer program can help students develop important skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Volunteering can also provide students with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions, helping them to discover new careers and hobbies. In addition, volunteering can be a great way for students to build their resumes and gain experience, which can be beneficial when applying to college or for future job opportunities. Furthermore, volunteering allows students to give back to their communities and make a positive impact in the world. Overall, participating in a high school volunteer program can be a rewarding and enriching experience for students.

Participating in a volunteer program can be a great way for high school students to gain experience, build their resumes, and make a positive impact in their communities. By finding a program that aligns with your interests and values, and committing to the program, you can make the most of your volunteer experience.