Youth unemployment rates are higher than ever before. Times have changed since our parents first hit the work force; jobs are scarce. So, how can youth get an edge on the competition? There is a way to gain skills, work experience and make contacts in the work force possibly leading to meaningful employment. And, it's free.
Volunteering. Easy to say it, but hard to get up off our butts to do it. The reasons to become a volunteer are endless, more than simply the standard "my heart is in the right place" rationale.
Admittedly, some reasons may seem selfish and contrary to the true motivation behind volunteering. However, the same goal is reached and usually the volunteer gains personal gratification from the experience. Cindy, an 18 year old volunteer explains, "I volunteered the first time at the local hospital so that I could put the experience on my university and scholarship applications. The second time I volunteered was to pass a high school course that required 20 hours of volunteer work."
Volunteer experience can help teens win scholarships and be accepted into University and College programs. Some high schools and post secondary institutions require a mandatory volunteer term to earn course credits. Volunteer work can be included on resumés and it counts as real work experience. Supervisors can provide excellent letters of reference.
(If this won't get you a job, what will?)
Of course, there is also the personal aspect. Being a volunteer requires that you co-operate with others. You must adapt to new situations and people, and have the ability to learn from these. The leadership skills that are developed can result in increased self esteem and a sense of responsibility. Volunteering creates social awareness and the ability to empathize for those less fortunate. Volunteering also provides insights into possible career choices.
Teens need to tap into their potential and show the world that there is no limit on what can be achieved. The youth of today are energetic, creative, full of fresh ideas and have a lot to offer.
