National Programs That Promote Youth Service
Volunteering is a great way for your teen to connect with the world around him, make healthy friendships and even change the world for the better. If he needs a little help being pointed in the right direction, share this list:
- SERVEnet: The premier Web site on service and volunteering. Enter your ZIP code, city, skills, interests, and availability and be matched with organizations that need help. Teens can even be "virtual volunteers," working from home on the computer. See also: www.networkforgood.org and www.volunteermatch.org. servenet.org
- Youth Service America: A resource center and premier alliance of 300+ organizations committed to increasing the quantity and quality of opportunities for young Americans to serve locally, nationally, or globally. ysa.org
- USA Freedom Corps: Launched in 2002 as part of President George W. Bush's State of the Union Address, USAFC is a clearinghouse of volunteer opportunities. usafreedomcorps.gov
- Do Something!: Funds and trains teens to be leaders in their communities. The Web site allows teens to apply for grants and awards, get new volunteering ideas, and read inspiring stories of other young volunteers. dosomething.org
- Points of Light Foundation and Volunteer Center National Network: A national nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that promotes volunteerism. Points of Light advocates community service through a partnership with the Volunteer Center National Network. Enter your ZIP code at the Web site to find the Volunteer Center nearest you, or call 1-800-VOLUNTEER (1-800-865-8683). pointsoflight.org
- Corporation for National and Community Service: Engages Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service to help strengthen communities. The home of AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Learn and Serve America. nationalservice.org
- Participate America Foundation: Organizes and coordinates National Civic Participation Week in September, created by the United States Senate as a way to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. participateamerica.org
- Youth as Resources: Community-based YAR programs, governed by a board of youth and adults, provide grants to young people to design and carry out service projects. yar.org
- YouthBuild USA: This program for low-income students helps rebuild and revitalize their communities. youthbuild.org
- National Youth Leadership Council: Works with adults and youth to support service learning. nylc.org
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