Most teens’ summers usually consist of sitting on their phone, going on vacation, or working the regular shift at their job. However, summer also offers the perfect opportunity to earn volunteer hours and get more involved in the community.
Volunteer hours can be really beneficial for teens, helping them stand out on college or job applications. Trying different opportunities can also help teens discover what they may want to do in the future.
Volunteering does not only benefit teens when it comes to college applications. According to Junior Achievement USA, dedicating time to volunteer can help teens build responsibility, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Allegheny County offers many opportunities for teens to get involved, while building their resumes and gaining experience.
The Teen Volunteer Program at UPMC can help teens gain exposure to a healthcare setting.
Volunteers can work in areas such as the child life department, transport team, waiting room support, patient experience, or physical therapy. The program runs from June through August, with volunteers working one shift per week in different areas of the building. This could be a great opportunity for someone interested in entering the healthcare field.
For teens looking for a more outdoor approach to volunteer hours, the Allegheny County Parks system is always looking for people to get involved. The organization offers many events to participate in, including restoring parks’ nature centers, the Adopt-a-Roadway program, and the Friends of the Parks program.
If teens are interested in animals, Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh could be the perfect place to volunteer. The organization offers different opportunities for ages ranging from 4 to 17. A different program, Animal Tales, allows people to read to animals that are waiting to be adopted, helping them become more socialized and comfortable around people.
The food bank in Duquesne is another great way for teens to directly help the community by fighting hunger. Volunteers mainly sort donations, organize food drives, and distribute food. The organization also hosts a Family Volunteer Day four times a year to help people learn more about getting involved. More information about volunteering can be found on the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank website.
Whether it is volunteering in healthcare, animal shelters, food banks, or community parks, there are plenty of ways for teens to make a difference during the summer. With so many opportunities available in Allegheny County, there is something for everyone, making it easier for teens to find an experience that fits their interests.
