Teens who volunteer

December 18, High school teens in California who volunteer, take part in community aid groups, and join school or other clubs are healthier and more likely to aspire to attending college, according to a study by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research. The study found that regardless of race or family income , one in three teens have a high level of civic efficacy, defined as caring about issues, feeling connected to others who are engaged in civic activities and feeling as if they can make a difference. However, there is a significant gap by race and income between those who are interested in and those who engage in civic activity. Using responses of 2, teens from the statewide California Health Interview Survey, the study looked at four areas of civic engagement among high school age teens in its analysis:.

Volunteer work can teach your teen a lot of valuable life lessons. Volunteering also benefits your teen by building their self-confidence and imparting empathy. Additionally, many college applications have spots where teens can list their service projects. If you're not sure where to find volunteer work for your teen, consider these options which usually offer something in every local community. Teens can organize blood drives, become educated and ready for disaster relief, or train younger children in-home safety. The Red Cross offers many opportunities throughout the year for youth, as well as programs for adults that teens can do too, such as their knitted items program. Check out the national website to find your local chapter.

Volunteering is an opportunity to change lives, including your own. If you're feeling frustrated or overwhelmed by the news of a disaster, volunteering to help can be a great way to cope. If you'd like to support a cause but can't afford to donate money, you can donate your time instead.

We know, like us, some of our families are facing financial difficulties right now. If you need assistance, please reach out to us. It's about time for an organization that modernizes the volunteering experience and makes it teen friendly. After all, it's not about money, it's about time!