8 Reasons Your Teen Should Volunteer

At Lion’s Heart Teen Volunteers and Leaders, we believe that there are many positive benefits of volunteering so we wanted to share a few with you. Here's 8 reasons why your teen should volunteer! 

1. Teens Build Empathy and Compassion

Learning from experience and stepping into others shoes instills compassion for others' circumstances which may be very different from our own.

2. Teens Gain Courage

Whether it’s getting up the courage to work at a food bank with a group of strangers, or teaching sports to a child with special needs, stepping out of your comfort zone is powerful, and what better place to do it than a safe volunteer environment? 

3. Volunteering Looks Great on College Applications

Colleges and universities are relying more and more heavily on how students use their gifts and their time to make a positive impact in their communities. Volunteering for causes that are in line with future goals can help when applying to colleges and universities as well as internships and job opportunities. Lion’s Heart volunteers are able to send a verified Cumulative Volunteer Transcript directly to college applications of their choice.

4. Teens Learn Accountability and Time-Management

Like any activity that requires you to be on time and ready to work, volunteering is a great practice.

5. Teens Gain Self-Confidence

Doing good for others promotes a sense of accomplishment which, in turn, boosts self esteem and gives a sense of purpose. Studies have shown volunteering can increase happiness, reduce stress, and make you feel better in general. 

6. Teens Learn Teamwork and Leadership

Volunteering brings out the best in everyone, and gives them the courage and confidence to lead projects and groups of people they never would have thought they could. 

7. Teens Often Find their Passion through Volunteering

Volunteering gives your teen a wide variety of experiences with different people and causes. This can spark a passion or help them hone in on a skill they already possess. 

8. Teens Gain a Sense of Accomplishment

Attaining well-earned awards like the President’s Volunteer Service Award (P.V.S.A.) and The Congressional Award can be accomplished through volunteering. 

Conclusion: 8 Reasons Your Teen Should Volunteer

The world needs volunteers now more than ever before. There is no better time to start your teen on their lifelong journey volunteering and helping others while gaining compassion and self esteem along the way!