Young people in Vermont like to volunteer, even more than their peers in just about any other state.

In the Green Mountain State, 41.3 percent of teens gave their time as volunteers from 2006 to 2008, according to Corporation for National and Community Service. The government agency’s VolunteeringInAmerica Web site (volunteeringinamerica.gov) shows that only Utah, at 42.6 percent, has a higher rate of teen volunteerism than Vermont.

There are plenty of reasons to volunteer. Trisha Shabazz, the director of the volunteer center for the United Way of Chittenden County, named a few. Volunteering can serve as a chance to meet new people and make new friends, meet a requirement for school or fill up some free time. Those looking ahead to college and careers can use community service experience to bolster a resume or college application. Supervisors at different agencies can write letters of recommendation for college, or provide references for jobs.

As Shabazz said, however, “I think the bottom line for anyone volunteering is because they recognized a need in the community and people want to make a difference.” 

Opportunities can be almost limitless, allowing volunteers to focus on anything that interests them. The United Way of Chittenden County alone, for instance, has more than 90 volunteer opportunities aimed at teens.

Larger groups can help out by sorting supplies at food shelves or cleaning up at nonprofit organizations. Individuals can often help with office work at various organizations, such as an animal shelter or an arts agency.

Not sure of what type of volunteer opportunities might interest you? Check out the United Way of Chittenden County’s Web site (unitedwaycc.org), which has a quiz about your personality to help you determine your ideal community service area. To access the quiz, go to www.unitedwaycc.org/index.php?page=69 and go the link for “Quiz” on the right hand side of the page.

Shabazz said her volunteer center will work with young adults and agencies to find the best fit for both sides.

“Opportunities are endless for these teens to have an impact on our community with our agencies,” Shabazz said.

 

HOW TO VOLUNTEER IN YOUR AREA

* United Way of Chittenden County (unitedwaycc.org) connects volunteers with more than 260 local agencies, and even offers opportunities specifically for teens.

* RSVP (volunteervt.com) serves as the volunteer center of central Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom.

* Like to spend your time outdoors or working with the environment? Check out the volunteer options from The Nature Conservancy (nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/vermont/volunteer/) and the Green Mountain Club (greenmountainclub.org/page.php?id=72).

* If you’re trying to find a community service opportunity close to home, check out VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org). Simply type in your hometown and wait for the search engine to spit out numerous options in your area. 

 

To publish something of your own, click here. Got a story idea? E-mail stephanie@fireflymag.com.