Are You A High School Student Looking for Opportunities in the Tri-Cities?
given the Many challenges high school students face, They Often feel pressure To find the right Volunteer fit. In this post, we Cover a few suggestions.
Volunteer at Your Local Arts Centre
Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody nonprofit organizations offer excellent volunteer opportunities for high school students to volunteer in the Arts. There are spring break and summer camps, ongoing program activities, and holiday festivities.
If you’re a fan of the arts, visit the volunteer pages of Place des Arts located in Maillardville, PoMo Arts Centre in Port Moody, and the Evergreen Cultural Centre in Coquitlam.
These centres provide various roles suitable for youth interested in the arts. Volunteer recruitment takes place weeks in advance of upcoming camps, and the program seasons in the Spring, and Fall.
Volunteer at Your Public Library
Libraries provide volunteer opportunities for teens too! Programs include book buddies, homework help, and advisory groups. Volunteer roles allow students to gain experience while helping others improve their skills.
Each library is unique. You’ll need to visit the website of each library to find more information on volunteer roles and how to apply. Volunteering for a public serving organization means the application process might require a criminal records check, references, and interview.
**The Port Coquitlam Public Library is part of the Fraser Valley Region of libraries. You’ll have to connect with the library for how to apply. Many of their events require a volunteer.
Volunteer in The Public Health Sector
Access Youth Outreach is a nonprofit organization that provides mobile outreach programs for at risk youth in the Tri-Cities area. High school volunteers can engage in various roles from administration to event facilitation.
The organization actively seeks volunteers to assist in multiple areas, including outreach, and committee work. This allows students to contribute to the community while gaining valuable experience in the public health field. Perfect for students interested in continuing their education in social sciences.
To get involved, high school students can apply by filling out a form on the Access Youth website. The organization emphasizes the importance of community support and highlights that volunteers play a crucial role in their outreach efforts.
The Arc of Tri-Cities
The Arc supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and offer various volunteer opportunities for high school students.
The Arc of Tri-Cities offers volunteer opportunities for students to participate in public events and programs organized by The Arc. Including summer camps that serve children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students can join the Buddy Club as peer buddies or assist with events like dances and movie nights.
These opportunities not only allow high school students to contribute positively to their community but also help them gain valuable skills and experiences working with people.
Last Words
We recognize the many challenges and barriers students face and encourage you to reach out to our team for one on one guidance. We’re open to discussing any of the following challenges you may face, and more:
Time Constraints
Many students juggle academic responsibilities, part-time jobs, and extracurricular activities, leaving limited time for volunteering. This is particularly challenging for those who need to work to support themselves or their families, making it difficult to find time to fulfill volunteer hour requirements.
Lack of Awareness
Students often struggle to find suitable volunteer opportunities due to a lack of information. Many are unaware of available placements or how to access them, which can lead to frustration and anxiety as graduation approaches.
Transportation Issues
For some students, getting to and from volunteer sites can be a logistical challenge, especially if public transportation options are limited or if they lack access to a vehicle. This can restrict their ability to engage in community service.
Perception of Forced Volunteering
Some students feel that being required to volunteer diminishes the value of the experience. This perception can lead to a lack of motivation and engagement, as they may view the hours as a chore rather than an opportunity for personal growth or community contribution.
Short-Term Opportunities
Many organizations offer only short-term volunteer roles, which may not provide enough hours for students who need to accumulate a significant number of volunteer hours quickly. This can lead to students having to scramble for placements as deadlines approach.
Competition for Roles
In some cases, there is intense competition among students for popular volunteer positions, making it harder for individuals to secure the hours they need. This competition can create additional stress and pressure on students trying to meet their requirements.