Volunteer work is a great way for children to learn empathy, teach gratitude, give back to the community, and help others. It does not hurt to earn those community service hours either. While many teenagers may not have time for a job with busy schedules, or teens younger than 16 may not be able to work, there are volunteer opportunities for children ages 5 and up.
Search for Volunteer Opportunities
- Youth Volunteer Network Directory of volunteer opportunities for children, teens, seniors, and groups. Search by zip-code, city or state.
- Volunteer Match – Same as above
- Idealist.org Ideas about ways to volunteer for kids and teens.
- Landmark Volunteer Program -Summer programs nationwide
- Volunteer Center Orange County Find Volunteer opportunities for senior citizens, sit on the board of a non-profit agency, corporate opportunities. Orange County, CA
Volunteer
- CHOC Volunteer at Children’s Hospital Orange County. Must be 16.
- Kaboom national non-profit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America. Volunteer or start a playground in your area.
- Locks of Love Donate your ponytail for people experiencing hair loss from chemotherapy
- Teen Angels a group of 13-18 year-old volunteers that have been specially trained by the local law enforcement, and many other leading safety experts in all aspects of online safety, privacy, and security
Global Projects/Travel
- Most are not strictly “volunteer” – (they cost money). Parents should be cautious of sending their child out of the country. Travel experiences can be life-changing for youth – just want to make sure it is life changing in the right direction.
- US Dept. of State Bureau of Cultural & Educational Affairs- youth programs – Links to foreign exchange programs and information about foreign exchange.
- Council for International & Educational Travel – Private organization with standards for youth travel abroad programs.
- Habitat for Humanity Youth Programs You can volunteer at habitat from age 5-25. Find out how.
- Habitat for Humanity International Program
- Amigos
- Global Routes
- Cross Cultural Solutions – Volunteer Abroad 1-12 week programs
- Global Youth Action Network
- Oxfam-For college students