For teens, volunteer work takes bigger role
by Jessica Driscoll, July 13, 2008

A rising trend in community service by teenagers and young adults indicates a generation that is more aware of the world around them, but volunteering also provides experiences and opportunities that many are no longer able to achieve through internships and part-time jobs.

"We have seen a surge in young volunteers here at the Volunteer Center, many who are aware that to get into the best schools they need to show some kind of community involvement," said Jane Emrick, volunteer coordinator at the Volunteer Center of Gloucester County. "But then they get their feet wet and see what a lift the projects give them. Regardless of the reason they start volunteering, many get a lot of satisfaction from it and keep doing it." Emrick said many of the young volunteers show an interest in working with children or animals or want to participate in conservation and cleanup projects.

"The young people today are really savvy about the issues of our world, and I think environmental involvement will be a rising trend," said Emrick. "But all forms of service give them experience that can lead to future projects and even future careers."

For a young person, trying to build a resume or college application can be a daunting task, especially in these economic times when employers are more hesitant to hire part-time workers with little or no experience.

"This is a tough summer for teens to find jobs," said Austin Lavin, who runs the Web site myfirstpaycheck.com with lists of jobs for teens in Philadelphia and South Jersey. "Fewer companies are hiring, and there is increased competition for traditional summer jobs, but there are still plenty of people looking for the affordable and enthusiastic help that teenagers can provide."

Lavin said it's important for young people to be creative, especially if they get a late start seeking resume-building activities.

"Aside from traditional jobs, teenagers might want to look at unpaid internships and volunteer opportunities," said Lavin. "My advice is that whatever route you're pursuing, be brave, polite, prepared, persistent and creative. It is also vital to bring a resume and a cover letter to any job application. Volunteering is a great option for teenagers because it provides teenagers a chance to stay busy, learn new skills, and meet new people."

Many jobs that traditionally provided employment for teenagers and college students are now given to international graduates and professional recruits who can offer more experience and longevity to a prospective employer, whereas the need for volunteers remains high in every field.

"I have worked in college admissions and financial aid at Columbia, Wesleyan and Brown, and often met with students who were frustrated that they couldn't find employment to build their resumes," said Rod Bugarin, spokesperson for ApplyWise.com and IvyWise, a private consulting firm in Manhattan that advises students throughout the college application process. "Jobs that were filled by 16-year-olds in the past are now being offered to college graduates and employers are becoming much more savvy in recruiting and selecting people who they feel can offer a long-term commitment."

Bugarin said that students and parents must realize that the job market is a whole new ball game now and should start seeking summer employment or internships months in advance, perhaps as early as January.

"Even with volunteering, kids are starting earlier and beginning service projects as early as freshman year of high school," said Bugarin. "People just aren't waiting until they're 16 anymore to make these decisions. Whether job shadowing or building relationships with schools or shelters, it's best to start early."

The Volunteer Center of Gloucester County, in response to the increased interest in youth volunteering, has developed new tools to help young people find just the right way to serve. An updated Web site, youth link and a volunteer opportunities list are now available to Gloucester County's younger citizens on the Web site at www.gloucestercountyvolunteers.org.

One opportunity for those wishing to help is the Volunteer Center's partnership with the Center for Family Services for Operation Backpack a program to collect backpacks and school supplies for school-age kids who need them. The Volunteer Center at Gloucester County College will serve as the local drop-off site for donated backpacks and supplies to be distributed to needy students who receive services through the Center for Family Services.

"Whatever inspires them to service, this involvement of youth in their community shows an increased awareness and need for connections," said Volunteer Center Director Sue Dixon. "And there's always a need for their help."