To Volunteer

I have had the opportunity to be a member of panels and boards that award scholarships and recognition to high school students. Each time I review applications, resumes and interview potential candidates, I am amazed at each applicant's preparation, dedication and diligence. Almost all of the applicants have impressive school transcripts, extra-curricular pursuits and work experience, but the area which usually determines the student who receives the recognition or scholarship from the one who does not is... community service.

Summer is a great time for teens to serve. They don't have homework; they may have fewer extra-curricular demands; they are watching too much television and playing too many video games. Hopefully your teen has altruistic desires to serve, but if resume building is where it starts, hopefully it will end in the warm glow of helping others. Doctrine and Covenants 58:27 states, "[young men and young women] should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will."

When helping your teen find meaningful ways to serve capitalize on the things they enjoy and ways they need to grow. For instance, my grandfather was in a nursing home for the last few years of his life and he enjoyed those individuals who shared their musical talents. Perhaps your teen could share his voice or instrumental talent on a weekly basis. Check with your local senior citizen center and see what needs they have. Perhaps they could teach "how to" classes for computers and software applications, cell phones, MP3 players and IPods, digital cameras and scrapbooking, or organize activities such as a Wii tournament or a real "senior" prom.

Is your teen interested in city government, law or politics? Most cities have a youth city council and youth court which are volunteer positions. Youth city councils plan city activities for youth; youth courts determine judgments for low-level offenses by juveniles. Many political campaigns, local and national, are in full swing and in need of volunteers.

Does your teen like books and love to read? Your local public library is looking for assistance with storytime, book clubs, activities and always re-shelving books. Although school libraries are typically closed for the summer, school library media specialists work throughout the summer to prepare newly received materials for use during the school year. As a former library media specialist, the help and the company was valued.

Maybe your teen loves to build or fix things. Habitat for Humanity has thousands of local affiliates and they are always looking for people who want to help.

As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and participants in the Young Men and Young Women organizations, youth have a plethora of opportunities for service. However, Utah youth beware! Every application will have raking leaves for the elderly and singing at the local rest home. If your teen wants to stand above the rest, he needs to show a true commitment to community service. "As you devote yourself to serving others, you will draw closer to Heavenly Father. Your heart will be filled with love. Your capacitites will increase, and your life and the lives of those around you will be blessed." For the Strength of Youth, p. 38.