In 2020, there were 1.6 million nonprofit organizations registered in the United States, a growing number of which were started by kids. Whether a young person is driven to start a nonprofit or simply looking to volunteer, there are many avenues they can take. By contributing to their community, children have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of those around them and maximize the success of the group. With the growing number of youth programs and experiences in their own environment, children are more involved in the nonprofit sector than ever.
As a parent myself, I have seen the many benefits of youth volunteering. In my family’s experience, school programs can be an excellent gateway into volunteer work. Student councils and other school clubs and programs often require their members to donate some of their time to charity. Getting children involved in their own school or immediate community is often easier as it is directly relevant to their lives. When they see the impact of their work firsthand, they are often encouraged to take on harder issues.
In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey made landfall in the southern United States, causing destruction in many states and cities. One of the impacted areas was Sugarland, Texas, home to my sister and her family. As we watched the hurricane unfold on TV, my sister’s family was forced to evacuate and find shelter. After being displaced from their homes and dealing with the effects of the hurricane, my niece and nephews - along with many of their neighborhood friends and their parents - were inspired by their experience to pay it forward. These kids now donate their time and talents by putting together care packages of supplies to help the victims of other natural disasters such as Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Ida.
When your family is impacted by a specific issue – whether it’s a hurricane or something much smaller – you can take the opportunity explore organizations that help others in similar situations. It can be helpful for youth to connect volunteer work with their own personal experiences. Especially for younger children, getting involved is easier if you start with things that they know or like. This approach is often more meaningful to both the volunteer and those being helped.
For example, if your child is fond of animals, try taking them to volunteer at an animal shelter. My animal-loving daughter has spent many hours volunteering at animal shelters and horse camps. For the animal nonprofits we volunteered at, I was able to donate my time alongside my daughter. It cannot be overstated how important it is for your child to see you, and other role models in their life, volunteering. Kids mimic their parents. If you are an active member in your community, your child will likely follow suit.
Volunteering with a familiar group is also an excellent place to start. Not only will it provide your child with a more comfortable environment, but it will also strengthen the bond between friends and family. Some programs and youth activities, like Boy Scouts of America, help kids build a relationship with their peers while also exposing them to volunteer work.
Youth volunteering takes many forms that can be adapted to fit the needs of the volunteers and communities they are serving. It can mean picking up the trash at your local park or providing a low-income family with a meal, and it can be done as an individual or in a group. But regardless of how a child chooses to volunteer, the community will certainly benefit.
