Five Volunteer Opportunities for Teens in Tampa this Summer

Thought leaders from all around the internet seem to enjoy bashing on today’s “self-absorbed” Gen Z. for being plugged in yet disconnected from the real world, consumed by selfishness and selfies, and great at texting but horrible at face-to-face interaction.

Really, though, are Linksters the most self-absorbed generation in history? Maybe they are, or maybe teens are actually looking for volunteer opportunities while no one is watching.

In fact, according to the Millennial Impact Report, today’s teens and young adults are involved, engaged and committed.  84% 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 and prove those “thought leaders” wrong, now’s the time! With summer almost here, there are lots of great opportunities for teens like you to volunteer in the Tampa area, from helping animals, to gardening, to protecting the environment, 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:

1. Humane Society

• What they do: Provide care and comfort for companion animals in need.
• How you can help: Everything from animal care to event staff to veterinary assistants.

2. Sweet Water Organic Community Farm

• What they do: Produce organic vegetables and herbs.
• How you can help: Planting, harvesting, and weeding.

3. Tampa Bay Watch

• What they do: Help the Tampa Bay recover from devastating environmental problems.
• How you can help: Restoration and protection activities such as oyster dome construction, salt marsh plantings, and coastal cleanups.

4. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo

• What they do: Rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create experiences that connect people with wildlife.
• How you can help: Assist with seasonal and special events.

5. James Haley Veterans Hospital

• What they do: Care for veterans.
• How you can help: Escort, feed, and greet patients, liaison with waiting families, and help staff special events.

Still looking for a great volunteer opportunity to match your particular passion?  No worries! Go to KidsThatDoGood.com and use our search engine to find more volunteer opportunities in your area.