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Give &GET
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WHy it benefits TEENS to VOLUNTEER
We all know that giving our time and talents benefits the organization that
we are helping, but the benefits don’t stop there. Volunteers get a lot out of
the process too, especially when they are teens. Here are a few of the things
your teen will gain when they volunteer this summer.
A new perspective
Working to aid others, often different from them and often less fortunate, can really open a teen’s eyes to the wide world around them.
They’ll appreciate what they have more and better understand how
others feel and what issues are facing their community.
New skills
Many times, organizations put their
volunteers to work doing a wide variety
of needed tasks. Your teen may get the
opportunity to do things they wouldn’t
in any other situation and could
learn some valuable new skills in the
process, skills they’ll use throughout
their lives.
HOW TO
CHOOSE
There are plenty of
places that need
volunteers, but choosing
an opportunity that is in
line with your teen’s
interests and current skills
will probably provide the
richest experience.
New contacts
Volunteers meet a diverse cross section of
people, including the organization’s staff, the people
they are helping and other volunteers. As your teen prepares for
college and the job-market, adding to their network of possible job
references and resources for job hunting is always a positive thing.
new resume highlight
Volunteering looks great on college applications and may provide
the needed edge when your teen stacks up against other applicants
with similar grades, activities and test scores. Encourage your teen to
take a leadership role when volunteering and make sure they outline
specifics of what they did and how they helped find solutions on
their resume.
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new knowledge
Depending on what type of volunteer work your teen chooses, they can gain some hands-on experience in a career field
they are interested in. They should ask for tasks that challenge
them and really give them inside info. This can help them when they
study for this career in college, or help them rule it out early if they
find out it’s not what they thought.
new boost
Realizing that they can make a real difference in someone else’s life
will empower your teen and give them a big shot of self-confidence
that will serve them well for years to come.
GET INVOLVED If your teen is interested in volunteering,
you can find multiple opportunities by contacting groups
like Hands On River Region at www.handsonriverregion.org.
www.potentialmagazine.com