Hey, I’m Aven Osborne, and today I want to talk about something that’s really important to me—community volunteering. As a teenager in Missouri, I know how busy life can get with school, sports, and everything else. But getting involved in your local community is one of the best things you can do. Not only does it help others, but it can also give you a sense of purpose and make you feel more connected to the place where you live. In this blog, I’m going to share how you can start volunteering in Missouri and why it’s so rewarding.
Why Volunteering Matters
I first got into volunteering when I realized how much I loved helping others. Whether it’s raising money for animal shelters or spending time with younger kids at my church, volunteering has given me a sense of pride and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people and make a real difference. In Missouri, there are so many ways to give back—whether you’re passionate about animals, kids, the environment, or something else.
When you volunteer, you’re not just helping someone else—you’re also learning new skills, building confidence, and sometimes even finding new hobbies. It’s a chance to discover what you’re passionate about while making your community a better place. Volunteering is also something that looks great on a resume, and it can help you develop leadership skills and work ethic that will serve you in the future.
Where to Start: Find Something You Care About
The first step in getting involved in community volunteering is figuring out what you’re passionate about. Missouri is full of opportunities, so there’s no shortage of things to get involved in! For me, I’ve always loved animals, so I started by volunteering and fundraising for local animal shelters like Furry Kids Refuge and Wayside Waifs. These places always need help, whether it’s walking dogs, cleaning cages, or raising money for the cause.
If animals aren’t your thing, think about what excites you. Do you love spending time with kids? Consider volunteering at your local library or youth center, where you can help with after-school programs or reading initiatives. Or, maybe you’re into environmental conservation. Missouri is home to many beautiful parks, and there are plenty of environmental groups that need volunteers to help with cleanups and nature projects.
Another great option for getting involved is through your school or church. Many high schools offer community service projects or even organize volunteer groups. Churches often have outreach programs where teens can volunteer at food banks, help organize events, or visit elderly members in the community. If you’re already involved in sports, think about how you can use those skills to help others, like coaching a local kids’ team or running sports camps.
How to Find Volunteering Opportunities
Once you know what you’re interested in, it’s time to find some volunteer opportunities. The good news is, there are tons of ways to find out where you can help in Missouri.
Start by checking with your school counselor or local community center—they often have lists of organizations that need volunteers. You can also ask your church or local youth group if they have any upcoming volunteer events. Many churches host food drives, clothing donations, and mission trips that are great opportunities for teens to get involved.
A quick search on Google or social media can also help you find organizations looking for volunteers. Websites like VolunteerMatch.org and Idealist.org allow you to search for volunteer opportunities based on your location and interests. Social media pages for local nonprofits are another great way to find out about opportunities in your area. Plus, you can follow these organizations to stay updated on future volunteer events.
What to Expect When You Volunteer
When you sign up to volunteer, it’s important to be prepared for the experience. Volunteering is a commitment, and while it’s fun, it’s also work. But trust me, it’s worth it. You might find yourself doing anything from organizing donations to helping with event planning, working directly with people, or assisting with fundraising efforts. Every volunteer job has its own responsibilities, and they can teach you valuable skills.
For example, working at an animal shelter taught me how to handle stressful situations and manage my time efficiently. I also learned how to work with a team and take initiative. Volunteering at my church has given me the chance to develop leadership skills as I’ve helped lead events for younger kids. And when you start volunteering, you’ll realize that you’re making an impact, even if it feels like small steps at first.
The Benefits of Volunteering as a Teen
Volunteering as a teen is one of the best things you can do for your personal growth. First of all, it makes you feel good to help others. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the feeling you get knowing you’ve made a difference in someone’s life.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Volunteering gives you the chance to build new skills, meet people, and boost your confidence. It can help you develop a better understanding of your community and the people who live in it. Plus, the more you volunteer, the more you’ll realize what you’re passionate about, which can help guide your future career decisions.
Lastly, volunteering is a way to create lasting connections. Whether it’s a local nonprofit, your church, or a group of fellow volunteers, you’ll form relationships with people who share your interests. It’s an amazing way to get to know your community and make lasting friendships.
Make Volunteering a Part of Your Life
Getting involved in community volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it can be as simple as helping out at a food bank for a few hours or joining a local cleanup effort. What’s important is that you start, and know that every little bit helps.
Missouri is full of opportunities for teenagers like you to make a difference. Whether you’re helping animals, the environment, or your local community, volunteering is a rewarding way to give back and grow as a person. So, what are you waiting for? Find something you’re passionate about, and start giving back today!