Recommendations for service projects or similar

[woolybear]

I'm looking for suggestions/recommendations of good organizations that offer service projects for teens. Ds is 15, will be 16 in July. We are located in the Northeast, could travel a bit (by car) for a good experience for him. I would prefer something that is not religious in nature, though I don't mind if it is affiliated with one as long as that is not a strong component  of the experience. I just want to find something that is well run and supervised, will be a good experience, and is not expensive.

 

I am also interested in hearing about other positive summer experiences for teens. Not a traditional camp and not a regular summer job.

[FriedClams]

I'd look into Habitat for Humanity. With a good mentor it could be great.

 

We also volunteer at a food pantry a few times a month.

 

Coaching youth, local museums always need volunteers, and hospitals need help. Veterans groups around here also need volunteers.

 

MFW adds a service project as a component of ask their hs programs. I think it's awesome.

[stephinsocal]

Do you know justserve.org? They match projects with volunteers. You might check to see if they have anything in your area.

[woolybear]

Well, up to now he has always had a sport that he's been very involved with. However, due to injuries he is not doing any sports at the moment. I don't know if he will return to one of his old sports. That has always been his passion. He is not particularly interested in anything right now. This is partially why I want him to do something. I want him to be involved in something positive. It will be an opportunity to try something new and give to others at the same time. This is not something he  is looking for.

 

He does have some construction and painting skills so Habitat for Humanity is a good option.

 

I am really thinking something more intensive for the summer. Perhaps 1-2 weeks or longer. Maybe something where he goes and stays overnight, so he is more immersed in the experience. I also think he will appreciate the opportunity for some independence.

[Frances]

Around here the YMCA has both day and overnight camps that allows teens to volunteer or work for minimal wages. The Boys and Girls Club is always looking for youth coaches and referees for their various sports programs.

[idnib]

Well, up to now he has always had a sport that he's been very involved with. However, due to injuries he is not doing any sports at the moment. I don't know if he will return to one of his old sports. That has always been his passion. He is not particularly interested in anything right now. This is partially why I want him to do something. I want him to be involved in something positive. It will be an opportunity to try something new and give to others at the same time. This is not something he  is looking for.

 

He does have some construction and painting skills so Habitat for Humanity is a good option.

 

I am really thinking something more intensive for the summer. Perhaps 1-2 weeks or longer. Maybe something where he goes and stays overnight, so he is more immersed in the experience. I also think he will appreciate the opportunity for some independence.

 

I don't know the details of his injury, but you mentioned he might be able to do construction, so I'll just mention one of my favorite organizations, the Student Conservation Association.

[woolybear]

Yes. I just discovered the SCA the other day. Looks like a good possibility, though competitive. I'm not sure if they want to see grades, etc. His are not good right now.

 

Their summer program is just the sort of thing I'm looking for. Any more ideas along those lines??

Edited February 9, 2016 by woolybear

[1Togo]

animal shelters

 

Dd fostered and rehabbed dogs and puppies. It was a great experience. The shelter gave us all the supplies. Dd fed, walked, and played with animals. Lots of hours. Lots of fun.