Too old for summer fun but too young for a job? Volunteering is one option that can provide teens with an opportunity to gain some work skills and experience while helping others.
Along with learning about leadership and responsibility, students who volunteer during the summer can get a head start on their senior project, log some community service hours or explore a field of interest.
"Teens gain a bigger sense of who they are. They become more confident and communication skills are improved," said Merle O’Neill, executive director of Youth Service Hawaii, an agency that engages youths as active citizens through service and education.
Before embarking on a project, O’Neill suggests students enlist friends and other peers to join in and look for volunteer opportunities that play to their interests.
"Teens are social beings. It’s easier if they decide what things they are interested in, do some research and find a need in the community. It helps to work with an adult or agency," she added. "Service activities teach them that they are really important in the community. They should do something that makes their heart sing."
Volunteering can also give students an edge on college applications, she added. "They are not just looking at academics, but (also) involvement in the community. Colleges are looking for students that have the capacity to not just become good students, but also good citizens — on the track to becoming a well-rounded adult."
Karly Tokioka and Josh Freitas, both seniors at Kamehameha Schools, worked together to organize Warrior Wish, a 5K race scheduled for Sunday as a benefit for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which arranges special events, travel and other activities for children with life-threatening illnesses.
The project evolved from an elective course that was centered around their senior project. Tokioka had never worked on a project of this scope from beginning to end, but says the experience has been extremely rewarding.
"I love children, so Make-A-Wish was the perfect fit. I’m healthy and can’t imagine facing all of those obstacles and struggles at a young age," Tokioka said. "Giving back is such a good feeling. I’m making someone else’s dream come true."
