20 Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students: Ideas for Getting Involved in Volunteer Work as a High Schooler
As a high school student, there are plenty of opportunities to give back to your community through volunteer work. Not only does volunteering allow you to make a difference in the lives of others, but it also provides you with valuable experiences and skills that can help you in your personal and professional life. In this blog post, we are sharing a list of 20 volunteer opportunities for high school students.
Why are volunteer opportunities important for high school students?
Volunteering is important for several reasons. It allows you to give back to your community and help those in need. By volunteering, you can make a difference in the lives of others and improve the world around you.
Volunteering as a high school student can help you develop new skills and gain valuable experience. Whether you're working with animals, children, or the elderly, volunteering can help you build communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
Volunteer work can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By helping others, you can feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that can boost your self-esteem and overall well-being.
Lastly, pursuing volunteer opportunities as a high school student can also be useful for college applications, as long as your interest is genuine and your commitment to service aligns with your values. While we don’t recommend volunteering for the sole reason of standing out in college admissions, we have noticed that admissions officers often look for well-rounded applicants who are actively involved in their communities. By volunteering, you can demonstrate your commitment to making a difference and highlight your leadership and teamwork skills. Volunteering can provide you with unique experiences and perspectives that can make your application stand out from the crowd.
Our List of 20 Volunteer Opportunities for High School Students
Here are 20 volunteer opportunities for high school students:
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and education within the United States. They have a wide range of volunteer opportunities, from helping with blood drives to assisting with disaster relief efforts.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that helps build affordable housing for low-income families. Volunteers can help with construction, fundraising, and other activities.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is a national organization that provides meals to homebound seniors who are unable to cook for themselves. Volunteers can help deliver meals, provide companionship, and assist with administrative tasks.
National Parks Service
The National Parks Service is responsible for maintaining and protecting the national parks and historic sites in the United States. Volunteers can assist with conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and other activities.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a global organization that provides sports training and competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Volunteers can help organize and run events, coach athletes, and provide administrative support.
United Way
United Way is a nonprofit organization that works to improve communities through education, income stability, and health initiatives. Volunteers can help with fundraising, community outreach, and other activities.
Boys and Girls Clubs of America
Boys and Girls Clubs of America is a national organization that provides after-school programs for children and teenagers. Volunteers can help with tutoring, mentoring, and other activities.
Animal shelters
Animal shelters provide care and temporary housing for animals in need of homes. Volunteers can help care for animals, socialize with them, and assist with administrative tasks.
(Contact your local shelter)
Local libraries
Local libraries provide resources, services, book drives, storytimes, and other events to/for their communities. Volunteers can help with book drives, assist with events, and provide administrative support.
(Contact your local library)
Hospital volunteering
Hospitals provide medical care and support to their communities. Volunteers can assist with patient care, provide administrative support, and help with fundraising.
(Contact your local hospital)
Homeless shelters
Homeless shelters provide temporary housing and resources to individuals experiencing homelessness. Volunteers can help provide meals, clothing, and other resources to those in need.
(Contact your local shelter)
YMCA
The YMCA is a nonprofit organization that provides youth programs, fitness programs, and community outreach. Volunteers can help with youth programs, assist with events, and provide administrative support.
Environmental organizations
Environmental organizations work to protect and conserve the natural environment. Volunteers can help with conservation efforts, environmental education, and other activities.
(Check with local organizations such as Sierra Club or Greenpeace)
Museums
Museums provide educational resources and cultural experiences to their communities. Volunteers can assist with tours, events, and educational programs.
(Contact your local museum)
Senior centers
Senior centers provide resources and services to seniors in their communities. Volunteers can assist with activities, provide companionship, and assist with administrative tasks.
(Contact your local senior center)
Religious organizations
Religious organizations provide spiritual guidance and community outreach. Volunteers can assist with community outreach, provide administrative support, and help with fundraising.
(Contact your local religious organization, church, or temple)
Community gardens
Community gardens provide a space for community members to grow their own produce. Volunteers can help with planting, weeding, and harvesting.
(Check with your local community garden)
Youth sports organizations
Youth sports organizations provide opportunities for children and teenagers to participate in sports. Volunteers can coach or referee youth sports leagues.
(Check with your local sports organizations)
Community theaters
Community theaters provide opportunities for community members to participate in theater productions. Volunteers can assist with performances, events, and administrative tasks.
(Contact your local theater)
Crisis hotlines
Crisis hotlines provide support and resources for individuals in crisis. Volunteers can provide support and referrals to those in need, and assist with administrative tasks.
(Check with your local crisis hotline)
Pursue volunteer opportunities as a high school student
Volunteer opportunities are a rewarding and valuable experience for high school students. Not only does it allow you to make a positive impact on your community, but it can also help you develop new skills, gain valuable experience, and boost your college applications. By taking advantage of the numerous volunteer opportunities available, you can find a cause that aligns with your interests and passions while making a difference in the lives of others.
If you're interested in volunteer opportunities for high school students, start by researching organizations in your area and reaching out to see if they have any volunteer work available. You can also check with your school or local community center for information on volunteer opportunities. Remember, every little bit helps — even a few hours of volunteer work can make a significant difference.
So, don't hesitate to get involved and make a difference in your community. By volunteering, you can gain valuable experience, make new friends, and most importantly, make a positive impact on the world around you.
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
