Five Volunteer Opportunities for Teens in Dallas this Summer

Linksters: simply the most self-absorbed generation in history, right? It’s possible. But maybe teens are actually looking for volunteer opportunities, it’s just that no one is watching.

Thought leaders from all corners of the internet seem to enjoy railing against today’s “self-absorbed” Gen Z 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.

However, despite the railing, reality doesn’t match 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.

So, are you looking to find a way to volunteer and break the myth?  Now that school’s out, there are lots of great opportunities for teens like you to volunteer in the Dallas area, from helping the community, to supporting children, to donating your time to the scientific community, 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. Dallas Parks and Recreation

• What they do: Manage diverse facilities and recreational programs.
• How you can help: Participate in senior adult and afterschool programs, park beautification projects like, “It’s My Park Day,” and numerous other daily activities and special events.

2. Dallas Life

• What they do: Surround children with a full support system so they are able to continue to grow, learn, and participate in activities.
• How you can help: Manage events, spend time with children, and help with activities.

3. Crossroads Community Services

• What they do: Provide nutritious food and supportive education to the Dallas community’s low-income families.
• How you can help: Assist clients with food and clothing selection; receive, sort, and display donated items.

4. Perot Museum

• What they do: Inspire minds through nature and science.
• How you can help: Assist in summer Discovery Camps and engage Museum guests throughout the permanent exhibit halls.

5. Children’s Health

• What they do: Offer a wide range of health care services for children.
• How you can help: Serve patients and families through staff support and customer service.

Still looking for a different 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.