Community Service Opportunities for Kids in Houston
Whether kids just want to do something for their community or want to start building hours for college resumes, there are plenty of opportunities to do volunteer work around Houston. At Pro-Vision Academy charter school we’re big supporters of our community, and our work wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for all the wonderful volunteers that give their time and energy to the school.
Throughout the academic year we preach the importance of community service to all of our students. Our goal is that by the time they graduate every student understands how they can make a positive impact in their neighborhoods and communities, and how volunteerism can give them a real sense of purpose.
Here are some local community service activities for middle school and high school students that want to give back this summer.
The American Red Cross of Greater Houston
The Greater Houston Area Chapter of the American Red Cross hosts many service projects that youth volunteers can get involved in over the summer. Houston residents are well aware of how devastating natural disasters can be. When students join the Red Cross Club the humanitarian work that they do with the American Red Cross could help to save lives and ease hardship, possibly right here in our own community.
Ages: 15-18 years old
Houston SPCA
If you’re an animal lover getting involved in the Houston SPCA volunteer program will be as fun as it is rewarding. After attending an orientation student volunteers can begin working with the cats, dogs, farm animals and more that are rescued by the SPCA. Because of the training involved, the Houston SPCA does require that people volunteer for a minimum of three months
Ages: 16+ years old
Citizens for Animal Protection
Another animal-friendly volunteer opportunity for middle school and high school students is the Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP) volunteer corps. Youth volunteers will help with animals when they arrive at the shelter, help customers in the Happy Tails Pet Supply Shop and/or CAP Thrift Store and help families select their pets. CAP even has a volunteer coordinator who can help students that are trying to get volunteer hours for school. Please note: Kids aged 12-15 must have a parent with them at orientation and during volunteer sessions. CAP asks that all volunteers commit to helping at least 4 hours a month for six months.
Ages: 12+ years old
Autumn Grove Cottage
At Autumn Grove Cottage youth can help elderly Alzheimer’s patients while learning about the lives of an older generation. Volunteers lift the spirits of patients’ by simply spending time with them playing games, reading, gardening and just visiting. Students will need to participate in training and an orientation before they begin volunteering at Autumn Grove Cottage.
Ages: 5 years old and up
Houston Methodist Caring Teen Volunteer Program
The world-class Houston Methodist Medical Center is opening its doors to teens that want to help make a difference in the lives of patients. Caring Teen youth volunteers learn how to do supplemental work that supports the medical center staff that takes care of the patients. They get to learn real world skills, gain a better understanding of what its like to work in a hospital environment and improve the patient experience by helping and interacting with patients and their families.
Ages: 15+ years old
How will you improve your community this summer break? If you know of other youth volunteer opportunities please share them with us!
Image Source: http://www.ingimage.com/imagedetails/78082485_extInt0/ING_17215_03382-Ingimage-contributors-Teenage-Volunteer-Helping-Senior-Man-Walking-Along.html
Original Source: http://www.provision-inc.org/community-service/community-service-opportunities-kids-houston/