When people talk about community involvement, they usually think about volunteering. However, involvement can be any sort of interaction within the community. Adults are able to get involved through work and other civic participation, but it is not as easy for teens to be active in a community. However, it’s worth the effort for teens to find ways to help out in the community because it’s a good way to keep busy and explore their interests.
While it may take a little creativity to find something that is both interesting and helps other, it is possible.
For example, one teen, junior Courtney Kleinschmidt from Jefferson High School, got her friends together and helped grassroots organizer Kyle Wilkey canvass about an issue Kleinschmidt believed would keep the Missouri legislative branch free from corruption. That volunteer work allowed her to tie her interest in government and law into something constructive.
“I liked learning about (the political topic) myself and being able to share my knowledge with the community members who may not know about it,” she said.
Another teen, junior Vanessa Forsiter from Jefferson High School, said some teens get involved in community service to build resumes, which is great. However, “just doing something nice for someone or a group of people can make you feel good even when there is no reward involved,” she said.
Forsiter said community involvement can help teens gain empathy for others and create a friendlier environment for everyone.
Getting involved not only enables teens to help others but also helps teens build social skills and work experience. It teaches teens how to reach out to others without a touch screen and build ties in the community.
For those interested in getting involved, there are many nonprofits and programs that will allow teens to take an active role in the community. There usually aren’t many requirements to become involved, other than, of course, one’s willingness and passion to do so.