The Hidden Benefits of Student Volunteer Programs
Should schools offer volunteer programs to their students? You bet. Youth that’s been exposed to volunteering and helping the community from early on, will see the world in a more open-minded way as adults.
What are the benefits of having a student volunteer program in your school? Read on to find out:
Motivation
First and foremost: motivation.
The majority of students lack the confidence to ask for help, or even admit that they need it. A student volunteer program provides them with an opportunity to overcome their fear. It also gives students experience working in a team and interacting with their peers. Most importantly, it allows them to develop responsibility and leadership skills.
Learning
Not all students learn well through traditional means, but they might excel in a real-life setting. The best way to teach is by example. By showing them how to conduct themselves as professionals, we give them the tools they need to become leaders in the future.
Support systems
Student volunteer programs allow teachers and parents to connect with their students outside of their usual environment. They provide all members of the community with an opportunity to get involved and work together for a common goal.
How volunteering in schools benefits you
Volunteering in school is a great way to build character, foster a sense of community and give students skills that will help them for the rest of their lives. Plus, student volunteer programs can be a lot of fun!
Here are some of the benefits students who participate in volunteer programs receive.
- Students who volunteer feel more connected to their community and school.
- Students who volunteer learn new skills like leadership, compassion and critical thinking.
- Those who volunteer have higher GPAs and better grades.
- They are more prepared for college and careers.
Although students who participate in volunteer programs receive many benefits, starting a program at your school might seem overwhelming at first. Here’s how you can get started:
- Get student input about organizing the club or group. Ask for ideas about things like the name of the group, requirements for joining and what types of volunteering opportunities should be offered.
- Once you have an idea of what types of volunteering activities students are interested in, talk to local organizations that offer those activities, and find out if they need volunteers from your school’s group.
- Get approval from your principal to create a volunteering club or group. If there is already an existing community service organization at your school, consider joining it rather than starting a new one.
- Find an adult sponsor for the club or group who will help organize meetings and activities, keep track of members’ hours and ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Volunteering helps students in a wide variety of ways. By helping them develop better interpersonal relationships, self-esteem and responsibility, volunteering can also teach students the value of community, and the power of directing their own learning. It’s also a great way for students to support and connect with others in their school.
Explore a variety of volunteering opportunities with 1Hour — you’ll be surprised how easily you can change someone’s life, just an hour at a time.
