Community Service - what’s it really for?

When we talk about community service for high school students, it’s often through the lens of completing a requirement or obligation.  Certainly if a requirement has to be fulfilled, that’s important, but it’s also valuable to reflect on why community service matters at all.  That insight can help students engage more fully in this domain and obtain the full benefit of these opportunities. 

 Exploration and Experience 

When students begin to approach college or career, many are met with a sense of confusion about which direction to take. Specific experiences within community service allow students to explore and define their passions and areas of interest. A student volunteering at a food pantry might subsequently explore economics or political science in an academic or professional setting; a student volunteering at a clinic might continue on to biology or public health. Community service also offers students opportunities to meet other like-minded young people and professionals and expand their networks.  

 Community Building 

While community service can help students build a sense of individualism, it also allows them to find a place of belonging. As young people grow, the intertwining relationships between community and self only grow deeper. By taking part in community service, students build both their sense of self-confidence and their awareness of meaningful interdependability. A student helping to build a house can take pride both in their own contribution as well as the lasting impact their efforts create.  

 Responsibility 

Community service presents students with accountability and awareness. Community service projects can give adolescents a unique opportunity to expand their independence as well as the satisfaction of sticking to their commitments. When students realize the full scope of the need for their help, this can motivate them to both stay involved beyond their term of service and use their influence to contribute to broader change.

The full benefits of community service go far beyond the activity itself.  What the student actually does is less important than just showing up - so get started!