Five Volunteer Opportunities for Teens in Chicago this Summer

Are Linksters one of the most self-absorbed generations in history? Maybe. Or, maybe, teens are actively looking for volunteer opportunities, even though no one is watching.

It seems that thought leaders from all corners of the internet enjoy railing against today’s teens, bemoaning a self-absorbed Gen Z that’s linked up but disconnected from the real world, consumed by selfishness and selfies, adept at texting yet unable to deal with face-to-face interaction.

But, thankfully, the reality doesn’t fit the 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.

Are you looking to find a way to participate?  Now that school’s out, there are lots of great opportunities for teens to volunteer in the Chicago area, from fighting hunger and nurturing kids to supporting developing countries and local running communities, and so much more.  Here are five ways that you can give back to your community this season, and get valuable volunteer experience as well:

1. Greater Chicago Food Depository

• What they do: Maintain a network of 650 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and programs that address the root causes of hunger.
• How you can help: Distribute food.

2. Camp Noah Youth Resiliency Camp

• What they do: Provide a great day camp experience for children whose lives have been impacted by disaster.
• How you can help: Work with children.

3. World Computer Exchange

• What they do: Refurbish donated computers and ship them to classrooms in developing countries.
• How you can help: Assist in refurbishing donated computers.

4. Cradles to Crayons

• What they do: Provide children living in homeless or low-income situations with essential items.
• How you can help: Help collect and distribute items.

5. Chicago Area Runners Association

• What they do: Supports area runners with training, social, outreach and advocacy programs.
• How you can help: Help manage runs and other events.

Still looking for a volunteer opportunity that matches your particular passion?  Go to KidsThatDoGood.com and use our search engine to find more volunteer opportunities in your area.