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Linksters are known by some as the most self-absorbed generation in history, but are they really? It’s possible, but also possible that teens are engaged in volunteer opportunities while no one is watching.
Countless thought leaders from across the internet seem to enjoy railing against today’s “self-absorbed” Gen Z. For what? For being linked up but disconnected from the real world, consumed by selfishness and selfies, and adept at texting yet unable to deal with face-to-face interaction.
Thankfully, though, reality doesn’t fit myth. In fact, according to the Millennial Impact Report, today’s teens and young adults are involved, engaged and committed. 84 percent made a charitable donation in 2014, the year of the study, and 70% spent at least an hour volunteering for a cause that they care about. They give their time and their talents in all kinds of surprising and creative ways, and go out of their way to support the causes they’re passionate about.
If you’re looking to volunteer this summer and prove those “thought leaders” wrong, now’s the time! With summer on its way, there are lots of great opportunities for teens like you to volunteer in the Washington, D.C. area, from helping the hungry, to supporting the homeless, to doing housework for the elderly, and so much more! Here are five ways that you can give back to your community this season, and earn valuable volunteer experience as well:
- What they do: Provide food, clothing, medical care, and legal and social services to vulnerable residents of Washington, DC.
- How you can help: Help out at their food pantries, orchard, clothing room, rooftop gardens, events, and centers.
- What they do: Support homeless families through educational programming.
- How you can help: Help classroom staff.
- What they do: Help seniors maintain their households.
- How you can help: Yard work and house cleaning.
- What they do: Provide free diapers to families in need.
- How you can help: Sort, pack, and stack diapers, sort inventory and organize the Baby Pantry.
- What they do: Bring pets to visit the elderly and sick.
- How you can help: Spread joy to people with your dog in nursing homes, hospitals, retirement communities, mental health facilities, and children in schools and libraries.
Still looking for a volunteer opportunity that matches your particular passion? No worries! Go to KidsThatDoGood.com and use our search engine to find more volunteer opportunities in your area.
