7 Ways to Volunteer in Youth Development

Youth development never gets the attention it deserves. While things like poverty and homelessness are important, it’s equally worthwhile to nourish the soul as well as the body. If you’re interested in making a real difference in the lives of young people, here are seven ways to get involved today.

1: Become A Tutor

Schoolwork is one of the first things to decline when things aren’t right at home. The good news is that even a few hours a week of homework help is enough to get a motivated student back on track. For those who have already fallen through the cracks, GED tutoring is also supremely beneficial in turning lives around.

2: Teach A Skill

Are you a great painter? Can you strum a mean guitar? There are kids out there who’d love to develop a talent but lack the teachers and resources to do so. If you’re passionate about dance, science or computer technology, start smiling and offering lessons to anyone who wants to learn.

3: Start A Journaling Club

Maintaining a journal is a healthy, positive and educational experience for young people of all ages. You’d be surprised at how many adolescents would stop getting into trouble if they just had some kind of outlet to express themselves.

4: Go To Camp

Camps are always in need of counselors. You don’t have to be any kind of teacher or child development specialist to apply; as long as you have patience, enthusiasm and a willingness to romp around with the kids, you’ll find a program that will take you.

5: Coach A Sport

Athletics teach structure and discipline. They’re also a lot of fun! If you know how to kick around a soccer ball or sink a three-pointer, you’ll have a wonderful time bringing the passion of group sports to deserving younguns.

6: Throw A Carnival

Sometimes people just need to step outside their lives for a minute to breathe and recharge. If you’re heartsore from all the suffering, put together a fun, family-friendly festival filled with games, rides and other cool stuff to delight your littlest friends. Let the kids just be kids for a day.

7: Join An Outreach Program

If you aren’t sure where to begin with self-directed volunteerism, consider lending a hand to an existing outreach program like Sing for Hope. Every group will have different goals and approaches, but all are equally invaluable.