Encouraging teens to do volunteer work is one of the most important things you can do for them as a parent. And the amazing thing is, once they get a taste of it, teenagers love to volunteer! In 2004, 55 percent of American teenagers volunteered-almost twice the rate of adults, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service. And students who do volunteer work actually do better in school than those who don't volunteer. Albert Schweitzer once said, "The only ones among you who will be truly happy will be those who have sought and found how to serve." In fact, volunteering provides many benefits for teens, including increased self-esteem, a feeling of being valued, the opportunity to meet new people, the acquisition of valuable new skills, and a lifetime of wonderful memories and experiences.
Volunteer opportunities for adolescents aren't difficult to find. Some organizations may have age restrictions if the job involves a certain amount of risk, but opportunities abound for all ages! One of the best places to start is with your local church, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. My kids have also found volunteer opportunities through the Parks and Recreation Department, hospitals, nature centers, libraries, children's museums, community and teen centers, and just through word of mouth. My 13-year-old had a great time as a volunteer at a boat show, which raised funds for charity. Don't be afraid to ask around. Most people jump at the chance to put a volunteer to work!
When teenagers learn to serve others, they become empowered. They grow up knowing that they can make a difference in the world. Just imagine what this kind of attitude can accomplish when our adolescents are soon the leaders of society! Making the world a better place starts by showing our kids how they can be part of impacting the future through volunteering.
Author Bio: Susan M. Heim is a writer and editor, specializing in parenting and women's issues. Formerly, Susan was a Senior Editor for the bestselling Chicken Soup for the Soul series. She is the author of Oh, Baby! 7 Ways a Baby Will Change Your Life the First Year (Hampton Roads) and Twice the Love: Stories of Inspiration for Families . . . of Twins, Multiples and Singletons (with TWINS magazine). Her next book, also about raising multiples, will be published by Hampton Roads in early 2007. Susan's articles and essays have also appeared in many other books, magazines and Web sites. She is a member of the National Association of Women Writers and the Southeastern Writers Association. She has a degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University, is married and the mother of four sons.
