Christmas Volunteer:
Teens Volunteer for Winter Break

Start now. If you would like to be a Christmas volunteer, you have some time, but today's the day to begin. Many organizations would be happy for some extra hands.

To get started, take a look at yesterday's list of categories.

Start by picking your favorites. Would you like to work with the elderly? animals? theatre? the homeless? Pick your top three.

Now, with your short list in hand, think of some places where you might volunteer in your community. You could get some help on this, ask adults or other teens for places they are familiar with (great way to start making connections too).

Next, be realistic. Some organizations are extra busy at Christmas, others slow down (or close down). You want the extra busy ones. Here are some ideas for pre-Christmas or Christmas Day.

Christmas Volunteer

1. Agencies where people (or animals) live or stay - this includes homeless shelters, nursing homes, prisons, orphanages, hospitals.
2. Organizations that give gifts or food to the needy - these include toy drives, food shelters, churches. You could wrap or deliver.
3. Public places that stay open on Christmas Day - although most will be closed you may find zoos, museums and art institutions that are open, maybe non-Christian organizations like a Jewish museum.
4. Emergency response groups - like your local fire department or emergency squad; most need trained personnel but maybe they could use some help with phones. If there is a storm in your area, other organizations may need help.

If you want to volunteer after Christmas, consider all the ones above plus these other ideas:

1. Schools - your school or a local preschool might like some help over the break, even if they are closed.
2. Food or clothing drives - you could organize a drive for an organization or local pantry. You could be creative and collect mittens, hats or fleece throws and decorate them before denoting them.
3. Political parties, candidates or issues - the Presidential election is behind us but it may not be too soon for next year's local or state candidates. Or explore the opportunities to work for your favorite issue.
4. Local sports teams or clubs - volleyball and basketball are in season, look for a local club you can offer your services to.

Check with friends, family, teachers and neighbors for ideas. Go online or to the phone book for contact information. Hate to make calls? (me too!) get a partner (or a parent) to make the initial call and find out who might be interested in your services. Then go see them.

Good Luck!

To become a Christmas Volunteer (or any other kind), check yesterday's blog.

For a list of Community Service ideas

PS Volunteering is impressive on your high school and college applications.

One last thought, don't forget to email and tell us about your volunteering. We would like to feature you as a Nonprofit Champion!