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The Logic of 'Mandatory Volunteerism'

By Stewart Ain

• March 23, 2003

EMILY FRIED, an 18-year-old senior at Roslyn High School, has put in more than 350 hours of community service at various sites, including at her former elementary school and Hebrew school. It all began because her high school requires students to perform 40 hours of community service in order to graduate.

''If it was not mandatory, I never would have looked into doing it,'' she said. ''But once I started, I liked it. And I have continued doing it because I realize how important it is to help other people. It has been very fulfilling for me.''

Miss Fried added that she believes community service should be mandated at all high schools because ''most kids don't even consider doing community service on their own.''

Beginning with the class of 1997, Roslyn High School students were required to complete 30 hours of community service at any time during the 9th through 12th grades. The standard was increased to 40 hours the following year.

Jayson Stoller, principal of Roslyn High School and vice president of the Nassau County Principals Association, said most of his colleagues ''have been looking at mandating community service for a long time but have not gotten the cooperation of the community.''

Part of the argument against it, he said, is the ''kids' right not to do involuntary servitude.''

Dr. Stoller added that many districts were using Roslyn ''as a model to see how things worked out. Well, things have worked out.''

But a spot check of school districts on Long Island found only three -- Roslyn, Commack and William Floyd -- that require students to perform community service before they graduate. William Floyd, which includes Mastic, Moriches and Shirley, requires 10 hours in the senior year. Commack requires 65 hours -- 15 hours in each of the 9th, 10th and 11th grades and 20 hours in the 12th grade.

William R. Bolton, superintendent of the Copiague schools, said his district considered mandatory community service but decided against it because it is a ''high-need district.''

''Many of our children work to make money because a lot of them are supporting themselves,'' he said. ''We are a 50 percent poverty district and 60 percent minority.''

As an alternative, the Wise Program, a school-business partnership, was developed in which seniors may intern with someone in the business community. ''As long as they are not paid and make a formal presentation about the work they learned, they get credit for it,'' Dr. Bolton said.

The Great Neck school district declined to mandate community service, believing that volunteerism is the ''purest form of community service,'' said William A. Shine, the district superintendent.

''It has been talked about by school administrators, but it has never risen to a board discussion,'' he said. ''The high school principals and faculty feel as though the youngsters are participating, especially as they get into their junior and senior years. The list of things they do is heartwarming. It just seemed to the faculty that when you mandate it, you lose the joy of volunteering.''

Dr. Shine estimated that 40 percent of the 2,000 students in the high school perform community service.

The Port Washington school district also rejected mandatory public service.

''If you say to kids they have to go to an old age home or have a coat drive, they will do it but it is not self-directed, and teaching kids to self-direct and make good decisions is important,'' said Geoffrey N. Gordon, the Port Washington superintendent. ''I don't believe in mandatory community service, I believe in volunteerism.''

He estimated that 75 percent of the district's 1,200 high school students perform 25 to 75 hours of community service in their four years.

''I want to emphasize to students that excellent citizenship and giving to others not only helps others but makes you feel better about yourself,'' Dr. Gordon said. ''Everything today is about what kids get -- toys and computers -- and in school it's important to teach what students can give.''

Eleanor H. Kurz, a Port Washington parent, said she believed it was wrong to impose community service on youngsters.

''Everything today is mandatory and arranged and organized,'' she said. ''I don't believe that people should be like a horse, put in harness and driven down the track. People's minds should be able to grow. We're living in a society where things are more and more controlled, and to have a great society you need to have a society that is inspired by great ideals.''

The Herricks school district considered mandating volunteer community service in 2001, but abandoned the idea when ''students and some others pointed out it can't be both at the same time,'' said John E. Bierwirth, superintendent of the district, which includes New Hyde Park, Williston Park, Manhasset, Roslyn, Albertson and East Williston.

''There is strong interest on the part of students, parents and staff to encourage community service and the question is what is the best way to do that,'' Dr. Bierwirth said. ''I think there is probably universal agreement that the ideal way would be for students to do it on a voluntary basis because it is something that is important and is a way to give back to the community. If you mandate it, you take out the voluntary part.''

He added that ''a tremendous number'' of his district's 1,300 high school students were performing community service, but that the district was now exploring how to get even more involved. ''And there are people who think it should be mandated,'' he said.

A number of school systems nationwide require mandatory community service as a high school graduation requirement, but William W. Reinhard, a spokesman for Maryland's Department of Education, said his is the only state to require it of all its high school students.

Mr. Reinhard said several cities, most notably Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Seattle, have a similar requirement.

Some students around the country fought mandatory service in the courts, claiming it violated the constitutional prohibition of slavery. All of the cases lost.

In the mid-90's, the New York City Board of Education studied the idea and dropped it after finding that some administrators nationwide viewed it as a distraction from academic studies. Last November, the city schools did implement it, but only as punishment.

William K. Costigan, president of the Roslyn school board, said that when the board first broached the idea, there was some apprehension from parents because it was ''always thought of as a punishment.''

''It's a shame school districts are using it as a punishment because our plan in no way has anything to do with punishment,'' he said. ''We just felt there was enough time in four years of high school to take 40 hours and do something to help the community. And when you look back on it, it has proved to be correct.''

Jay H. Pilnick, assistant principal of Roslyn High School and coordinator of the community service program, said most students found the experience so worthwhile they put in substantially more than 40 hours.

''Last year, the average was 114 hours,'' he said. ''There are at least 150 agencies that kids are working with, including local hospitals, nursing homes, Habitat for Humanity, churches and synagogues, the American Cancer Society, the American Red Cross and soup kitchens.''

Mr. Pilnick said he met with students and tried to match their interests with the work of the agencies.

''We also invite agencies to speak at our community service class,'' he said. Each student is required to take the one-semester course, which explains community service, multiculturalism and values training.

Daniel H. Ostroff-Moskowitz, 15, a sophomore at Roslyn High School, said he had been working at the gift shop at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in Queens since his freshman year. And last summer he volunteered at Camp Kehilla in Melville, a camp for children with special needs.

''It has given me a new perspective on everything,'' he said, noting that he put in 320 hours of community service at the camp.

Gennifer C. Soren, 16, a junior at Roslyn, said she had amassed more than 500 hours of community service working with children in an afternoon program at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in East Hills and in its Teen Council program, in which participants visit old age homes and help at soup kitchens each month.

''I'm not so sure I would have thought of doing this'' if it was not mandated, she said. ''Doing this made me realize that I might want to work with kids'' professionally.

The Jacobson Center is the largest placement site for Roslyn students seeking to perform community service, said Stuart R. Botwinick, director of teen services.

''Last year we had over 200 volunteers perform more than 4,000 hours of community service here,'' he said. ''On any given day we have 15 to 20 students here.''

He said that students from Herricks also volunteer at the Jewish Community Center but that the numbers are not as high because it is not required there. And Mr. Botwinick said he could understand why. ''We made up a list of what kids do after school,'' he said. ''They have homework, extra help, a tutor in every subject, sports, clubs activities and working out at the J.C.C., and they have a job, household chores and want to hang out with friends. There is so much going on in their lives that if it is not required, the numbers doing it are not going to be that high.''

The superintendents of Commack and William Floyd school districts said community service was no longer an issue there because it had been mandated for more than a decade.

''It is historically ingrained in the culture and is part of our mission statement,'' said James H. Hunderfund, the Commack superintendent. ''The value of altruism is something we want in our value system. Our primary mission is academic, but we want the kids to acquire not only skills but attitudes and values to become a contributing member of the community and the greater society.''

Asked about those who object to the coercion of students to perform volunteer activities, Dr. Hunderfund replied: ''How many students would do homework if we didn't require it? I don't think a lot of kids would read all the books and do their assignments. We think it's up to the professionals to decide what is important to learn, and to do that, you have to have them experience it.''

Richard J. Hawkins, the William Floyd superintendent, said the requirement had been ''institutionalized for such a long time, that the students know this is an expectation the district has of them. ''The only feedback is positive,'' he said. ''It connects the kids to the community, and our kids have told us that being connected is important.''

Mandatory Volunteering for Students: Is it worth it?

The following essay was written by a student from Improve Your English.

By E.C., Palo Alto

As the students get on the bus to volunteer at a poor nearby school, some students slump toward the bus while others continue laughing with their friends like they hold no regard for volunteering. The bus ride to the school is a constant buzz, filled with questions about what they will do there and who they will be helping. Many sit apathetically, but some are very interested. Although a study done showed that 30% of schools across California required mandatory volunteering from their students, the same poll showed that over half the students loathed volunteering. Parents, teachers, and faculty members all agree that volunteering is good for students, but many students disagree. Is it worth it for students to give up valuable school time in order to learn essential life skills through volunteering? The answer is yes. Schools should require mandatory volunteering because it allows students to learn important skills needed in the real world and give back to their respective communities.

Students should be required to complete a certain number of volunteer hours because volunteering teaches the important lessons of teamwork, self-esteem, and happiness. Being a volunteer, one has to work with their peers and the people they are helping, so students gain understanding of cooperating with others. Also, a study showed that volunteering makes one not only feel happier but also boosts self-confidence because one feels accomplished that they have helped others. In addition, volunteering should be mandatory because it expands connections within the community, making it more interconnected. A student volunteering with a specific organization or person could be useful later, perhaps by earning a job position in that organization when they grow older. Moreover, just making new strangers into friends is an important life skill because once one makes friends with others, they may give valuable pieces of advice. For instance, they may tell mistakes that they made and how to get over them. Volunteering in schools should be mandatory because it grows a person’s good characteristics and helps make new connections with different people.

In addition to developing personality, required volunteering gives students a chance to give back to their respective communities. Students that are forced to volunteer can give back to the community in many different ways from building new benches for elementary schools to simply tutoring others who need help. While doing these small tasks may seem insignificant, it helps a student feel empathetic for the people they are helping and so helps the student interact with others better than they have before, which builds closer relationships. Also, giving back to the community makes people feel more purpose in what they are doing, which often helps them work more productively than when they drag themselves to work. Finally, a student feels achievement because he or she has helped people to create better lives for themselves.

Some may say that when volunteering is mandatory, students will do a lackluster job as it seems like just another task. While this may be true, at least half-hearted volunteering is better than no volunteering at all. Volunteering educates students to learn new skills such as teamwork, cooperation, and kindness, which allows them to get along with others easily. Moreover, it is a place where students can build bonds with others and make new friends. Finally, volunteering could be useful in a college or job occupation as it shows that one is caring and has the fundamental skills to work with others. To the people who believe that the time spent volunteering could be better used elsewhere, such as studying for exams or attending summer camps, this rarely happens. Instead, most of the time, students are unproductive, preferring to surf social media or play games.

Volunteering in schools matures students because it helps them learn more about themselves. In addition, from cooperating with others, to building benches to tutoring a lower classman, volunteering makes students feel more accomplished, happy, and satisfied, while simultaneously helping them make new connections and friends. Moreover, volunteering gives students a sense of purpose and achievement as they are bettering their communities by helping others create better lives for themselves. While everyone would love to see less restrictions on students and letting them make difficult choices, the truth is that giving schools the power to discipline and guide their students goes a long way in helping the students as students often make poor decisions. Finally, students should start to realize that life is not completely about sports or grades, but helping others and making the world a better place through volunteering. Hopefully, in the future, schools will start to implement mandatory volunteering.

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a great community service essay.

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Tips for Writing a Standout Community Service Essay

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Through your college applications process, you’re likely to come across the term “community service” many times. In fact, you may be asked to write an essay about it. This post will cover the specifics of a community service essay and how to go about writing one, including what to cover and common mistakes to avoid. 

What is a Community Service Essay?

You may encounter the community service essay as you’re writing your supplemental essays for college. These are school-specific prompts that only go to the college that requests them, unlike the personal statement , which goes to every school you apply to. Not all schools require community service essays, but several do. It’s also a common requirement for scholarship applications, especially if it’s a school-specific merit scholarship. 

The community service essay is an essay that describes the initiatives you have taken outside of the classroom to benefit your community. In a 2018 survey of 264 admissions leaders across the US, 58% said that community service is a tie-breaker between students who are otherwise equally qualified. The community service essay offers you the opportunity to shine light on the work you have done to make an impact on the world and people around you, and is an additional way to help you stand out among other applicants. 

Approaching the Community Service Essay 

Understand the essay requirements  .

As with any essay, it’s important to first understand what is expected of your essay. For a start, elements to pay attention to include: 

• Length requirements
• Focus or subject of the essay prompt 
• Organization of the essay 

Although all community service essays ultimately have the same purpose of having you describe your local service activities, they can come with different types of prompts. Below are three sample prompts. Note the differences in topic specificity, length requirements, and breadth of the prompt. 

From the CGCS – Bernard Harris Scholarship Program: 

Please describe a meaningful volunteer or community service experience, including what you learned from participating.

From the University of California Application :

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? (350 words).

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words.

Brainstorming for your community service essay 

Once you have an understanding of what is required of the specific you are to write, the next step is to brainstorm ideas for a specific topic. If you have various community-engaged service experiences under your belt, consider the following before you finalize your decision. 

The best topics:

Are substantial in length and scope. It’s better to cover a long-term commitment than a one-off afternoon at the food pantry or animal shelter. 

Are transformative or inspiring. Although community service is “others”-oriented, colleges are looking to learn more about you. The ideal community service essay topic should be an experience that changed or challenged your perspective, and was ultimately fulfilling. 

Illustrate personal qualities or passions that you want to highlight. Given the specific prompt, and taking the rest of your application into consideration, which personal interests do you want to highlight? Which activity illuminates the personal quality that you want to bring attention to? 

These are all elements to consider before you begin writing your essay. 

Tips for Writing Your Community Service Essay 

1. include anecdotes.

Anecdotes are a great way to begin your essay, not only as a way to grab your reader’s attention, but by launching right into the experience of your service activity. You can start with a line about a particularly busy afternoon at the orphanage, or a morning cleaning up the streets after a storm, or the sense of accomplishment you felt when you watched a dog under your care at the animal shelter get adopted. 

2. Show, don’t tell 

We’re sure you’ve heard this axiom of general writing before, but it applies to college essays just as much as with any other piece of writing. Opt for evocative examples over plain explaining whenever possible. Take this sentence: “There was a lot of food waste at our school cafeteria.” It’s not nearly as powerful as this description: “I peered into the tall, gray trash cans to inspect the mountain of Styrofoam trays and discarded food. There were countless pizza crusts, globs of green beans, and unopened cartons of milk.” 

Anyone could write the first sentence, and it’s not a unique experience. In the second description, we’re shown the scene of the writer’s lunchroom. We get a peek into their perspective and life, which makes the writing more vivid and relatable. Aim to bring your reader into your world as much as possible.

3. Share your responsibilities and accomplishments.

The more tangible your community service activities feel to the reader, the more powerful your essay will be. Concretize your work by stating the basic details of what kind of work you did and what your duties involved, where it was based, when you began working, and the amount of time you spent working. 

Be sure to quantify your work and accomplishments when possible; it’s better to say your fundraiser yielded 125 books than “a large number” of books. It’s important to also elaborate on why the work you did matters. Why was it important? Did the books you collected or purchased after the fundraiser expand the library of the local orphanage that they already had, or did it offer the children easy access to books that wasn’t available previously? Be specific and detailed.  

4. Highlight what you learned and how you’ll use those lessons moving forward. 

Towards the end of your essay, you’ll want to share how you benefited from the community service work you did. This is an important part of the essay, because it shows how you are able to distill your experiences to applicable lessons in your own life. 

Think of this section in two potential parts: skills you learned, and personal development. Did you gain any hard skills, such as public speaking, poster design, or funds management? Then think about how you developed as an individual. Are you more empathetic or patient now? 

Things to Avoid in Your Community Service Essay 

1. don’t list out everything that happened..

You want to keep your essay well-structured and concise. This isn’t a résumé, or a play-by-play of the entire experience. Stick to the most telling details and anecdotes from your experience. 

2. Avoid using a pretentious or privileged tone.

Humility goes a long way, and entitlement can be smelled from afar. The purpose of this essay is not to paint yourself as a savior of any kind, but rather to show what’s important to you in your non-academic life, and how you approach solving real-world and interpersonal problems. 

3. Avoid clichés.

It may be tempting to quote famous people, but doing so can easily seem like a shortcut, plus it shows little of who you are. Try also to steer clear of trite and vague life lesson lines such as “I learned that people can be happy with so little,” or “I learned the importance of giving back.” Not only do they carry a tone of privilege, they are also sweeping general conclusions and don’t convey anything specific of what you learned. 

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Exploring the Importance and Benefits of Making Volunteering Mandatory in High Schools: An In-depth Essay

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Should volunteering be mandatory in high schools? This essay explores the benefits and drawbacks of making volunteer work a requirement for students.

In recent years, the debate about whether volunteering should be mandatory in high schools has gained significant attention. Advocates argue that compulsory volunteering can provide numerous benefits to both students and their communities, while opponents believe that it should remain a personal choice. This essay will explore the advantages of making volunteering mandatory in high schools, including the development of essential skills, fostering empathy and compassion, promoting social responsibility, and creating a sense of community.

Developing Essential Skills

One of the main reasons why volunteering should be mandatory in high schools is because it helps students develop essential skills that are valuable for their future. Through various volunteer activities, such as working at local charities or organizing community events, students can enhance their communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities. These skills are not only crucial for their academic success but also for their personal and professional growth.

Fostering Empathy and Compassion

Volunteering exposes students to different social issues and challenges faced by others in their community. It allows them to step into someone else’s shoes and experience the struggles and hardships that many individuals face. This firsthand experience fosters empathy and compassion within students, teaching them to be more understanding and considerate towards others. By making volunteering mandatory, high schools can play a significant role in shaping students into compassionate and caring individuals.

Promoting Social Responsibility

Another key benefit of mandatory volunteering in high schools is the promotion of social responsibility. By engaging in volunteer work, students become aware of their role and responsibilities as active members of society. They understand the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on their community. This sense of social responsibility instilled from a young age serves as a foundation for a more socially conscious and engaged society in the future.

Creating a Sense of Community

Volunteering allows students to actively participate in building and strengthening their local communities. By working side by side with community members and organizations, students develop a deeper connection and understanding of the needs and challenges faced by their own community. This involvement creates a sense of belonging and encourages students to take pride in their community, fostering a stronger bond among its members.

Overcoming Initial Resistance

While the idea of mandatory volunteering may face initial resistance from some students, it is important to recognize that reluctance to participate can stem from a lack of understanding or exposure. By implementing comprehensive educational programs and providing guidance, schools can effectively overcome this initial resistance. Students can be introduced to various volunteer opportunities, learn about the positive impact they can make, and be supported throughout their volunteering experiences.

Addressing Time Constraints

One common concern raised against mandatory volunteering is the perceived time constraints it may impose on students. However, by incorporating volunteering into the school curriculum and allowing flexibility in scheduling, schools can ensure that students have ample time to balance their academic commitments with their volunteer work. This approach not only addresses the concern of time constraints but also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing community service alongside academics.

Creating Lasting Impact

Mandatory volunteering in high schools has the potential to create a lasting impact on students’ lives. By engaging in meaningful volunteer work, students develop a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond their academic achievements. They learn that their actions can make a difference, no matter how small, and develop a lifelong commitment to giving back to their communities. This commitment continues even after high school, ensuring that the impact of mandatory volunteering extends well beyond graduation.

Building a Well-Rounded Individual

Volunteering provides students with experiences and perspectives that go beyond the classroom walls. It allows them to explore their passions, discover new interests, and develop a well-rounded personality. By engaging in diverse volunteer activities, students gain exposure to different cultures, social issues, and community needs, enhancing their understanding of the world and their place in it.

While mandatory volunteering in high schools may face initial objections, the benefits it brings far outweigh any concerns. By developing essential skills, fostering empathy and compassion, promoting social responsibility, and creating a sense of community, mandatory volunteering helps shape students into well-rounded individuals who are actively engaged in making a positive impact on the world. By instilling the values of giving back from a young age, we can create a society that is more compassionate, caring, and socially responsible.

The Power of Giving: Why Volunteering Should Be Mandatory in High Schools

Transforming Hearts and Minds: The Importance of Mandatory High School Volunteering

Unlocking the Joy of Compassion: Making Volunteering a High School Requirement

Building Stronger Communities: The Positive Impact of Mandatory Volunteering in High Schools

From Selfish to Selfless: How Mandatory Volunteering Shapes Empathetic Individuals

Preparing for the Real World: Why High School Volunteering is Essential for Future Success

Beyond the Classroom Walls: Engaging High School Students through Mandatory Volunteerism

Planting Seeds of Kindness: Nurturing Social Responsibility through Mandatory High School Volunteering

Creating Compassionate Leaders: Why Mandatory Volunteerism Should Be Embraced in High Schools

The Ripple Effect: How Mandatory High School Volunteering Inspires a Lifetime of Service

Imagine a world where every high school student is required to give back to their communities through volunteering. Such a world would be filled with compassionate and empathetic individuals, ready to make a positive impact on society. This vision can become a reality through the implementation of mandatory volunteering in high schools. By making volunteering a requirement, we can tap into the power of giving and shape the hearts and minds of our future leaders.

Volunteering has the incredible ability to transform not only the lives of those being helped, but also the lives of the volunteers themselves. When high school students engage in volunteer work, they are exposed to new perspectives and experiences that challenge their preconceived notions and broaden their understanding of the world. This exposure fosters empathy and compassion, allowing them to develop a deeper appreciation for the struggles of others. Mandatory high school volunteering ensures that every student has the opportunity to undergo this transformation, creating a generation of individuals who are not only academically intelligent but also emotionally intelligent.

One of the most powerful aspects of mandatory high school volunteering is the unlocking of the joy of compassion. When students are required to volunteer, they may initially see it as an obligation or a chore. However, as they immerse themselves in the act of giving, they soon discover the immense satisfaction and fulfillment that comes from helping others. This joy becomes infectious, spreading throughout their lives and inspiring them to continue giving back long after they graduate. By making volunteering a high school requirement, we plant the seeds of kindness, nurturing a culture of social responsibility that will benefit our communities for generations to come.

The positive impact of mandatory volunteering in high schools extends beyond the individual volunteers. It also has the power to build stronger communities. When students engage in volunteer work, they become active participants in addressing social issues and improving the lives of those around them. Whether it is tutoring underprivileged children, cleaning up local parks, or organizing food drives, their efforts have a tangible and lasting effect. Mandatory high school volunteering creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to get involved and fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the community.

Furthermore, mandatory volunteering in high schools helps to shape empathetic individuals who are capable of moving from a selfish mindset to a selfless one. Adolescence is often a time of self-discovery and self-centeredness, where teenagers are focused on their own needs and desires. By requiring them to volunteer, we challenge this self-centeredness and encourage them to consider the needs of others. Through their volunteering experiences, they learn the value of giving without expecting anything in return. This shift in perspective not only benefits their personal growth but also has a profound impact on their relationships and interactions with others.

Mandatory high school volunteering is not only beneficial for personal development but also essential for future success in the real world. In today’s competitive job market, employers are looking for more than just academic achievements. They want individuals who possess strong interpersonal skills, a sense of social responsibility, and the ability to work collaboratively. By engaging in volunteer work during high school, students develop these essential skills and qualities, giving them a competitive edge in college admissions and future career opportunities. Volunteering teaches them valuable lessons in teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership – skills that cannot be learned within the confines of a classroom.

High school should be a time of exploration and growth, extending beyond the traditional boundaries of the classroom. Mandatory volunteering offers students the opportunity to engage with their communities in a meaningful way, stepping outside their comfort zones and connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. By going beyond the classroom walls, high school students are exposed to real-world issues and challenges, providing them with a broader understanding of society and the tools to effect positive change. This engagement through mandatory volunteerism not only enriches their educational experience but also fosters a sense of civic duty and active citizenship.

Planting seeds of kindness and nurturing social responsibility are at the core of mandatory high school volunteering. By requiring students to engage in volunteer work, we instill in them a sense of duty towards their communities and fellow human beings. It becomes an integral part of their identity, shaping them into compassionate leaders who prioritize the well-being of others. These compassionate leaders are not only essential for creating a more just and equitable society but also for inspiring future generations to continue the cycle of service and giving.

Mandatory volunteerism in high schools creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the duration of their compulsory service. The impact of their volunteer work inspires a lifetime of service, as they carry the lessons and values they have learned into adulthood. They become role models for others, spreading the culture of giving and inspiring those around them to get involved. The ripple effect of mandatory high school volunteering reaches every corner of society, creating a world where kindness and compassion are the norm.

In conclusion, mandatory volunteering in high schools has the power to transform hearts and minds, unlock the joy of compassion, build stronger communities, shape empathetic individuals, prepare students for the real world, engage beyond the classroom walls, nurture social responsibility, create compassionate leaders, and inspire a lifetime of service. By making volunteering a requirement, we tap into the power of giving and create a generation of individuals who are not only academically intelligent but also emotionally intelligent. Let us embrace mandatory high school volunteering and create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion that will shape our future for the better.

Once upon a time in a small town, there was a high school named Brightville High. This school was known for its strong emphasis on community involvement and giving back. One day, the school administration decided to introduce a new policy: mandatory volunteering for all students. This decision sparked a heated debate among the students, teachers, and parents.

The Case for Mandatory Volunteering

• Volunteering teaches valuable life skills: Proponents of mandatory volunteering argue that it helps students develop essential skills such as teamwork, leadership, and empathy. By engaging in community service, students learn to collaborate with others, take responsibility, and understand the needs of their community.
• Building a sense of civic duty: Advocates believe that mandatory volunteering instills a sense of civic duty in students. It teaches them that they have a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of society. By making volunteering a requirement, students are encouraged to actively participate in their communities and make a positive impact.
• Expanding horizons and career exploration: Mandatory volunteering provides students with opportunities to explore different fields and interests. By engaging in diverse volunteer activities, students may discover new passions or gain insight into potential career paths. It broadens their perspectives and helps them make informed decisions about their future.

The Case against Mandatory Volunteering

• Lack of genuine motivation: Critics argue that forcing students to volunteer takes away the authenticity and genuine desire to help others. Volunteering should come from the heart, not as a mere checkbox to fulfill an obligation. They believe that voluntary service should be a personal choice, allowing individuals to choose causes they are passionate about.
• Added stress and time constraints: Opponents claim that mandatory volunteering adds additional stress to students who are already juggling numerous academic and extracurricular commitments. They argue that students should have the freedom to prioritize their time and focus on activities that align with their individual interests and goals.
• Potential for exploitative situations: Some individuals worry that mandatory volunteering may lead to exploitative situations, where students are taken advantage of by organizations seeking free labor. They raise concerns about the lack of oversight and potential for students to be assigned menial tasks rather than meaningful work.

In the end, the decision of whether volunteering should be mandatory in high schools is a complex one. Both sides present valid arguments, and it is essential to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks. Perhaps a compromise can be reached, where students are encouraged and provided with opportunities to volunteer, but not forced to do so. This way, they can discover the joy of giving back on their own terms.

Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog and read our article on the topic of whether volunteering should be mandatory in high schools. We hope that this piece has provided you with valuable insights and perspectives on this important issue. Throughout the article, we have explored the benefits and drawbacks of mandating volunteering in high schools, and we have presented various arguments from both sides of the debate.

It is clear that volunteering can have a significant positive impact on both individuals and society as a whole. By engaging in volunteer work, students can develop important life skills such as empathy, teamwork, and leadership. Additionally, volunteering allows young people to gain a deeper understanding of social issues and encourages them to become active citizens who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

However, it is essential to recognize that there are valid concerns regarding mandatory volunteering in high schools. Critics argue that forcing students to volunteer may undermine the true spirit of volunteerism and lead to a sense of resentment. They also highlight the potential for exploitation, as organizations may rely on mandatory volunteers instead of hiring paid workers. Moreover, some students may already have heavy academic or extracurricular loads, making it challenging for them to fulfill compulsory volunteer hours.

In conclusion, while the idea of mandatory volunteering in high schools may seem appealing due to its potential benefits, it is crucial to consider the complexities and potential drawbacks. Instead of focusing solely on mandates, we should strive to create a culture that encourages and supports volunteerism among young people. By providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful volunteer work and by fostering a sense of social responsibility, we can empower them to become active, compassionate, and engaged members of society.

We hope that this article has encouraged you to reflect on the role of volunteering in high schools and sparked further discussions. We believe that by exploring different perspectives and considering the nuances of this issue, we can work towards creating a future where volunteerism is truly valued and embraced by all.

Thank you once again for visiting our blog, and we look forward to bringing you more thought-provoking content in the future..

Should Volunteering Be Mandatory In High Schools? Essay

1. Why should volunteering be mandatory in high schools?

Volunteering should be mandatory in high schools because it provides numerous benefits to both students and society. Firstly, it helps students develop essential life skills such as empathy, teamwork, and leadership, which are not always taught in traditional classroom settings. Additionally, volunteering exposes students to diverse communities and real-world issues, broadening their perspectives and fostering a sense of social responsibility.

2. What are the advantages of making volunteering compulsory?

Making volunteering compulsory in high schools has several advantages. Firstly, it ensures that every student gets the opportunity to engage in community service, regardless of their personal interests or background. This promotes inclusivity and equal access to valuable learning experiences. Moreover, mandatory volunteering instills a sense of civic duty in students, encouraging them to actively contribute to the betterment of society throughout their lives.

3. Are there any disadvantages of enforcing mandatory volunteering?

While mandatory volunteering has its merits, some argue that it may lead to a lack of genuine engagement from students. If volunteering becomes an obligation rather than a choice, students might approach it with a resentful attitude, potentially diminishing the impact of their efforts. Moreover, enforcing mandatory volunteering could also create logistical challenges for schools, such as organizing suitable opportunities and tracking student participation.

4. How can mandatory volunteering be implemented effectively?

To ensure effective implementation of mandatory volunteering in high schools, it is crucial to strike a balance between obligation and enthusiasm. Schools should provide a variety of volunteer options, allowing students to choose activities aligned with their interests and passions. Furthermore, offering guidance and support throughout the volunteering process can help students understand the significance of their contributions and foster a genuine desire to make a difference.

5. What is the long-term impact of mandatory volunteering?

Mandatory volunteering can have a lasting impact on students’ lives. By engaging in community service during their high school years, students are more likely to continue volunteering as adults, creating a culture of social responsibility. This sustained involvement can lead to positive changes within communities and contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals who are committed to making a difference in the world.

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Persuasive Essay On Mandatory Volunteering

Would you consider volunteering a passion? Will you consider volunteering more if you knew it was for your grade? “One very specific reason to tie volunteer work to education is that teen volunteers are more likely to succeed academically than teens who don't volunteer” (Paragraph 5). To help a teen to be good for society, schools should make volunteering mandatory. Mandatory volunteering is seen as a good thing for teens because they´re helping the community. However, volunteering is when you decide to do something good to help someone out of the kindness of your heart but most teens don't want to and don't even think about it. When it comes to mandatory volunteering for teenagers, the argument goes for volunteering the Point article, “Give Teens Some Work to Do! It’s Good for Them and Everyone Else” by the Studysync Curriculum because of its effective use of research and quoting professional organizations. The article “Give Teens Some Work to Do! It's Good for Them and Everyone Else” by the Studysync Curriculum is the most convincing because it uses the argumentative strategies: effective research and quoting professional organizations. Firstly, an example of a strategy that makes this article more convincing us the effective research the article provides. “ Finally, the United Way says that volunteering improves people's health and helps to make a difference in someone's life” (Paragraph 4). In other words, it is better if the volunteer hours are part of teens school curriculum. This makes a convincing argument because it states the research they found and also includes a professional organization which proves someone professional proved it . This helps to make the argument convincing because most people will rely on professional statements and if they are proven by someone that did the research and studies it which means they know a lot about that.Additionally, another strategy that makes this article persuasive is the article quoting professional organizations. “Back in 2005 , a collaborative study conducted by the corporation for National and Community Service and the U.S Census Bureau revealed that students who do better in school are most likely to be volunteers ¨ (Paragraph 5). In other words

Mandatory Volunteering In The United States

The United States of America requiring adults between the ages of 18 to 30 to do mandatory volunteering may sound like a good idea, but has some underlying flaws that may cause more problems than solutions. Some of the problems that may occur would be people not being enthusiastic about volunteering, work ethic, and how we would pay mandatory volunteers.

Persuasive Essay On Mandatory Military Service

One of the greatest problems facing America today is the fact that we still rely on volunteer military service. The idea that Americans have to rely on a volunteer fighting force to defend this great country is very unsettling. In fact, the number of U.S Soldiers has been reduced to its lowest number since 1940, which then forces the military to depend on unstable and unprepared soldiers. This will put not only those troops at risk, but also our country. The only way to solve the weakness of volunteer military service is to implement a new idea. That idea would be to make it mandatory for all able-bodied citizens over the age of 18 to serve. Another name for this practice is called mandatory military service. Mandatory Military service will solve the problem of Volunteer Military service by maintaining and accumulating a strong military force quickly and promoting unity in the country.

College Admissions Essay: The Benefits Of Volunteering

Surrendering my free time to serve others, is often times not something I crave to do. Selfish ambitions take over, and consequently, I participate in activities I find pleasing to me rather than others. However, when I take the time to assist others and take action in my community, I have found that it is a rewarding experience. Volunteering has never led me to anything negative, and it has allowed me to be a part of a positive and uplifting experience. My desire to volunteer may consume my time, but the countless rewards I receive from volunteering are priceless. Offering my time to organizations has allowed me to become more humble, see the happiness it brings to people, and improve my social skills.

Volunteering In Public Schools

Many schools need to push students to participate in volunteering services to receive their high school diploma. By students being part of an active role in the community, they are capable of becoming responsible leaders, learning new things, and helping those in need in their community. Volunteering is beneficial to students because it helps them become more mature and it helps them get ready for the real world. Students need to help the community whether it is forced or not.

High School Students Volunteering Program

Many high school students do not have volunteering program. There are many ways to participate in our community. Schools should require students to participate in volunteer program in their programs in their communities as a requirement for graduation because, it will make students get ready to college, it gives life and work experience for future, and it also strength our community.

High School Volunteering Essay

I personally believe that it is important to give your services to the community during your High school years. It can be beneficial not just for that community but, to yourself which will help you in your time of needs. As a High school student, I know someone doesn’t want to do something kind for somebody or something else unless without something in return but looking few steps forward into the future, I feel that volunteering or doing community service hours will help much more in the near future after High school. Volunteering is important due to the fact that it is Socially, Intellectually and Artistically rewarding for High school students if that student is willing to put forward the effort of gaining something new and valuable from it. This is why I favor that your time is very important to your community and gaining something useful in return and it should be mandatory to do community services.

Unpaid Work Research Paper

Is it a good idea to encourage teenagers to work in a volunteer capacity? Some people think it is beneficial for young people to do unpaid work in the community. There are several reasons why this is a favorable idea. One is that doing unpaid work will help them become more responsible and gain experience. Another is that working for charities or other organizations will help them contribute to society. One reason why encouraging teenagers to engage in unpaid work may not be a favorable proposition is that it does not give them an accurate picture of what it is like in the workforce. Encouraging teenagers to do unpaid work to help society will help them become better individuals and improve society as a whole.

Difference between Community Service and Volunteering

• 15 Works Cited

Discussing about volunteering to teenagers should be the first step for a better life, since teenagers are the future of tomorrow and they will leave a mark from yesterday. Volunteering has been such an important matter, that schools in many countries around the world established that 12th grade students will need certain hours of community service in order to graduate. But the frequent answers all the schools are getting are “Why do I need to volunteer? I have better things to do!” What people are forgetting is that each one of them is part of a community, a community that is not perfect and that the government sometimes forgets about their problems or needs, because obviously the government needs to take care of other things that require more attention. People are not only helping others, they are also helping themselves (Volunteering).

Mandatory High School Graduation

The last reason why they shouldn’t do community service is because some students will think there volunteer work will be helpless because they feel forced to do it. Some teens don’t like feeling this way they rather want to do it because they want to and not having to feel the need to do it. For example also in the same article it says, “These students should be proud that they can help selflessly out intrinsic motivation, instead of feeling forced to put their hours of hard work toward ssl requirement.” Teens need to feel helpful instead of obligated to help their

Persuasive Essay On Volunteering Work

I believe the volunteering work that I’ve put in my four years of high school will have benefited me because I have taken school and volunteering very seriously. For the past two years I have been a part of the National Honors Society, which requires a minimum of 20 hours of community service per year. This past year, I’ve also been active in a Leadership class, where I am in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Being a part of NHS and BBBS has really opened up many opportunities that I’ve never thought about doing. I’ve volunteered at many places including Cascades Humane Society, the Jackson Friendly Home, the Lyle Torrant Center, the Michigan Center Food Pantry, and I read to first graders every week.

Volunteering In High Schools

Most young adults think volunteering is just something additional they can do to put more things to put down on a college applications, something that isn’t quite necessary, but nice to participate in. As kids think that to do community service you have to personal payoff for the action to be worth it, they sometimes feel it is a waste of time. Although community service is not mandatory for teens in high school to graduate some argue that it should be required. Should young adults have to have community service hours to be able to graduate high school? Research shows that youth who participate in any kind of service have better academic, behavioral, or civic outcomes than youth who do not participate in any service at all suggests that a

Should Schools Acquire Service Hourss In Order To Graduates?

Through volunteering, teens can experience what it’s like to have a job. This can definitely help them think about career they want to pursue in the future. For example, if you are thinking of become a veterinarian, you could volunteer at an animal shelter! Even though it is true that students have other things to focus on, such as school, family, and extracurriculars, volunteering can give teenagers a whole different perspective on life. Don’t you think this is a great way for schools to teach their students about the real world? It is also important to note that service hours can increase one’s social skills. Not only are you getting out of the house more, but you are constantly meeting new people, whether you join a team to clean up a local park or volunteer at a nursing

Volunteering Benefits High School Students

Volunteering benefits high school students because it looks favorable on a college resume. Community service will that students are willing to work without compensation and that you truly care about your work and other individual lives too. “Commitment to community volunteer work over time shows that a teen is willing to work for something without monetary compensation--much like a college internship, apprenticeship or job shadow experience--which may be a requirement of college programs”(Cobb). Students also get to represent themselves as one for who cares for the community and others by giving back and helping others out. Employers will be fairly impressed by the work you have done and it will show that if you are hired for the position you

Volunteering Programs In High Schools

Many high schools require students to participate in volunteering programs in their communities as a requirement for graduation.Schools requiring students to volunteer in their local communities is a terrific idea, for a few various reasons. For starters, volunteering could keep students out of trouble. Secondly, students could learn new skills that might help them in the future. Lastly, students would be helping someone in need. Students should be required to participate in volunteering programs in their communities as a requirement for graduation.

Persuasive Essay On Community Service

I have been volunteering before I was old enough to know I was volunteering. As the youngest of four, I happily came along whenever my parents and siblings volunteered. But, community service is not just something I was taught to do; it is something I love to do. Today, I serve others in ways that are closer to my own heart. Serving people and animals “who don’t have a voice” has been and always will be central to who I am. I spent this summer raising awareness and funds for foster children, and I am excited to use those funds this November to personally decorate and deliver new duffel bags with supplies to foster children in my area. Additionally, I have loved dedicating my time to a local animal rescue where I have participated in animal

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• Adolescence
• Volunteering
• Volunteerism

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Volunteering refers to the selfless and voluntary act of offering one's time, skills, or resources for the benefit of others or a particular cause, without expecting financial compensation or personal gain. It is driven by a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of individuals, communities, or organizations, and to make a positive impact on society.

The history of volunteering traces back to ancient civilizations, where communities came together to support one another in times of need. However, the modern concept of volunteering emerged during the 19th century. Here is a brief overview of the history of volunteering: Voluntary acts of service can be found throughout history, such as religious charity work in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In medieval Europe, religious organizations and guilds played a significant role in providing assistance to the needy. In the 19th century, philanthropic movements gained momentum. Individuals like Florence Nightingale and Clara Barton pioneered organized volunteer efforts in healthcare and disaster relief, respectively. This era also saw the establishment of charitable organizations and social reform movements. The World Wars spurred a surge in volunteerism as communities rallied together to support soldiers and civilians. After the wars, volunteering expanded into various sectors, including community development, education, and environmental conservation. In the 20th century, volunteering became more structured and professionalized. Nonprofit organizations, such as the Red Cross and United Way, grew in prominence, offering organized volunteer programs and opportunities. With the advent of the internet and social media, volunteering has become more accessible and widespread. Online platforms connect volunteers with organizations and facilitate virtual volunteering, expanding the reach and impact of volunteering efforts. Today, volunteering is a global phenomenon, deeply ingrained in societies worldwide.

Volunteering in the United States plays a vital role in supporting communities, addressing social issues, and fostering civic engagement. It involves individuals dedicating their time, skills, and resources to serve others and make a positive impact on society. Volunteering in the US takes various forms, ranging from local community service initiatives to national and international organizations. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, environmental conservation, disaster relief, and social services. Volunteers contribute in diverse ways, such as mentoring youth, assisting with food distribution, participating in environmental cleanups, supporting homeless shelters, and providing medical assistance. The importance of volunteering is evident in the benefits it brings to both individuals and communities. For volunteers, it offers an opportunity to develop new skills, gain valuable experiences, expand their social networks, and enhance personal growth. Communities benefit from the selfless contributions of volunteers, as it helps address unmet needs, strengthens social cohesion, and promotes positive change.

1. Community Service 2. Skill-Based Volunteering 3. Environmental Volunteering 4. Crisis and Disaster Relief 5. International Volunteering 6. Virtual Volunteering

Mother Teresa: Known for her selfless dedication to serving the poor and marginalized, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity, an organization that provides aid to the needy worldwide. Her compassionate work earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi, the influential leader of India's independence movement, was a strong advocate for volunteerism and community service. He promoted the concept of "Seva," which means selfless service to others, emphasizing the importance of giving back to society. Martin Luther King Jr.: A prominent figure in the American civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. inspired others to engage in volunteer efforts to address racial inequality and social justice issues. His message of equality and nonviolent activism continues to resonate today. Jane Addams: Recognized as the mother of social work, Jane Addams co-founded Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago, which provided education, healthcare, and social services to immigrants and the poor. Her dedication to improving living conditions and advocating for social reform laid the foundation for modern social work.

Personal Growth: Volunteering provides opportunities for personal development and growth. It allows individuals to acquire new skills, expand their knowledge, and gain valuable experience in various fields. Volunteering also helps boost self-confidence, improve communication and teamwork skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities. Social Connections: Volunteering offers a chance to meet and connect with diverse groups of people, fostering social interactions and building meaningful relationships. It helps individuals expand their network, create lasting friendships, and develop a sense of belonging within their communities. Sense of Purpose and Satisfaction: Engaging in volunteer work gives individuals a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Contributing to a cause they care about and making a positive impact on the lives of others can bring great satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. Community Engagement: Volunteers play a vital role in building stronger communities. By dedicating their time and efforts, they help address local needs, promote social cohesion, and create a sense of unity and shared responsibility within neighborhoods and society at large. Health and Well-being: Volunteering has been linked to improved physical and mental health. It can reduce stress, combat feelings of loneliness and depression, and increase overall well-being. Engaging in volunteer activities that align with personal interests and passions can bring joy and a sense of fulfillment. Professional Development: Volunteering can enhance career prospects and professional development. It allows individuals to gain relevant work experience, develop transferable skills, and demonstrate their commitment and dedication. Volunteering can also provide networking opportunities and open doors to new job prospects. Making a Difference: One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others and contribute to meaningful causes. By lending a helping hand, volunteers can bring about positive social change, support vulnerable populations, and contribute to the betterment of society.

1. According to the World Giving Index 2021, 31% of people worldwide reported volunteering their time, with the highest rates found in Indonesia, Kenya, and Nigeria. 2. The estimated economic value of a volunteer hour in the United States was $28.54 in 2020, highlighting the significant contribution volunteers make to the economy. 3. In the United States, approximately 25% of young people aged 16 to 24 engage in volunteer work, contributing to community development, education, and environmental initiatives. 4. Research has shown that volunteering can have positive effects on physical and mental health, reducing the risk of depression, improving well-being, and increasing life satisfaction. 5. Many companies encourage their employees to volunteer, with 59% of Fortune 500 companies offering formal volunteer programs. Corporate volunteering promotes team-building, employee engagement, and social responsibility. 6. Volunteers play a crucial role in disaster response and recovery. During the 2017 hurricane season, for example, the American Red Cross deployed over 50,000 volunteers to assist affected communities. 7. Studies have found a correlation between volunteering and increased longevity, as well as higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Volunteering is an important and meaningful topic to write an essay about due to its numerous benefits and contributions to society. By exploring the subject, one can delve into the profound impact volunteers have on individuals, communities, and even global issues. Firstly, volunteering promotes social responsibility and civic engagement. It encourages individuals to actively participate in addressing social challenges and making positive changes in their communities. It fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of belonging, leading to a more inclusive and connected society. Secondly, volunteering offers personal growth and development opportunities. It allows individuals to acquire new skills, gain practical experience, and enhance their self-confidence. Moreover, it provides a platform for individuals to explore their passions and interests, leading to personal fulfillment and self-discovery. Additionally, volunteering plays a vital role in addressing societal needs that may not be adequately met by government or other institutions. It contributes to areas such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and disaster relief, making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Furthermore, volunteering can have a ripple effect, inspiring and motivating others to get involved and create positive change. It serves as a catalyst for social transformation, as the collective efforts of volunteers can lead to long-lasting impact and sustainable development.

1. Brudney, J. L., & Meijs, L. C. (Eds.). (2014). The Oxford handbook of volunteering, giving, and philanthropy. Oxford University Press. 2. Clary, E. G., Snyder, M., Ridge, R. D., Copeland, J., Stukas, A. A., Haugen, J., & Miene, P. (1998). Understanding and assessing the motivations of volunteers: A functional approach. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 74(6), 1516-1530. 3. Handy, F., Cnaan, R. A., Brudney, J. L., Ascoli, U., & Meijs, L. C. (Eds.). (2010). Public participation in volunteerism: A comparative analysis. Routledge. 4. Holmes, K., & Jones, E. (Eds.). (2017). The Routledge handbook of volunteering. Routledge. 5. Howlett, S., & Dickinson, H. (2009). Volunteer decision-making: What prompts a person to volunteer? Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, 38(2), 266-288. 6. Hustinx, L., Cnaan, R. A., & Handy, F. (2010). Navigating theories of volunteering: A hybrid map for a complex phenomenon. Journal for the Theory of Social Behaviour, 40(4), 410-434. 7. McNamara, T. K. (2008). The sociology of volunteering. Springer Science & Business Media. 8. Smith, D. H., Stebbins, R. A., & Dover, M. A. (2006). A dictionary of nonprofit terms and concepts. Indiana University Press. 9. Smith, K. R., Holmes, K., & Mervyn, K. (2010). Volunteering and society in the 21st century. Palgrave Macmillan. 10. Wilson, J. (2012). Volunteering. Annual Review of Sociology, 38, 519-539.

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Volunteering Essay Examples

An essay on volunteering serves as a platform to explore the selfless act of contributing time, skills, and effort for the betterment of others and the community. The purpose of such an essay is to highlight the meaningful impact of volunteering, showcase the values it fosters, and inspire readers to engage in acts of service. Essays on volunteering emphasize the importance of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility, while also addressing the personal growth and fulfillment that volunteers experience. Promotion of Social Good One of the primary goals of an essay on volunteering is to promote the concept of social good and community welfare. These essays shed light on the positive change that volunteers bring to various social, environmental, and humanitarian causes, showcasing the power of collective action. Essays about volunteering emphasize the values of empathy and compassion that underlie acts of service. They encourage readers to step into the shoes of others, understand their challenges, and offer assistance to alleviate their hardships. Volunteering essay examples aim to inspire readers to take action and become active participants in their communities. These essays showcase how even small contributions can make a significant difference, encouraging readers to get involved and contribute their skills and time to causes they care about. Structure of an Essay on Volunteering:

Introduction: Begin with an engaging introduction that introduces the topic of volunteering and provides context for its significance. Thesis Statement: Include a clear thesis statement that outlines the main points you will address in the essay. Body Paragraphs: Divide the body of the essay into paragraphs that discuss different aspects of volunteering. This could include personal experiences, benefits of volunteering, impact on the community, and the values it fosters. Real-Life Examples: Include specific examples of volunteer work or organizations to illustrate your points. Personal Reflection: Share your personal reflections on the impact of volunteering, whether you’ve volunteered yourself or witnessed its effects. Encouragement and Call to Action: Conclude the essay by encouraging readers to consider volunteering and offering suggestions for getting involved.

An essay about volunteering serves as a reminder of the positive impact that individuals can have on society by giving back. By discussing the values, benefits, and personal growth associated with volunteering, these essays motivate readers to engage in acts of service that contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious world.

Why I Want to Volunteer: a Commitment to Giving Back

Volunteering is a powerful way to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the well-being of communities. It is a selfless act that not only benefits those in need but also enriches the lives of volunteers. Exploring the question of...

Reasons Why Volunteering is Important in Australian Sport

One of the last persuasive speeches on volunteering which I have heard was about the urgent importance of voluntary work these years as it has an important input in society, letting many organizations, to meet the demand for their services. Volunteers are the backbone of...

Volunteering at a Hospital: a Journey of Compassion and Contribution

Volunteering at a hospital is a unique and rewarding experience that offers insights into the healthcare field while allowing individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. This essay explores the significance of volunteering at a hospital, highlighting the...

The Motivators and Barriers for Blood Donation Amongst Male and Female Donors

A suitable blood supply relies on individual who are volunteer non-rewarded donors. In this paper, we would determine the selection and retaining sufficient normal voluntary non-rewarded blood benefactors the motivators and hindrances behind them should also be comprehended. Likewise, with fast increment in the use...

Formal Volunteering as a Protective Factor for Older Adults’ Psychological Well-being

Volunteering not only helps strengthen communities, but also promotes individual well-being. More specifically, volunteering among the geriatric community has been shown to yield a greater benefit than that of the younger population regarding emotional, psychological, and physical health. The study I will be analyzing asserts...

Personal Report on Volunteering at Dorothy Children’s Home

The USIU-A educational experience is pitched on helping the community as its major stronghold; building a culture and a community that both reflects and fosters togetherness, and demonstrate progress towards measurable community goals. This is done by ensuring that all students do community service in...

Fostering Team Bonding Through Corporate Volunteering Abroad

The effects of volunteerism on employees is well documented. So why not blend your next team-building effort with community outreach and volunteer efforts? Better yet, do it overseas! Volunteering overseas is a life-changing experience that can benefit the volunteer as much as it does the...

Cultural Development Through Acts of Kindness and Good Deeds

Many positive influences in society today have contributed to the development of a sustainable environment. Through multiple acts of altruism and teamwork, this has remained a possibility. Positive influences and human characteristics can both be developed through good deeds such as community services or mission...

An All-volunteer Force as the Better Alternative to Compulsory Military Service

“If a country cannot save itself through the volunteer service of its own free people, then I say: Let the damned thing go down the drain!”, once said Robert A. Heinlein at the 29th World Science Fiction Convention’s Honor Speech. In the last century, there...

The Main Skills I Acquired During My Time Volunteering

One of my weaknesses is working and collaborating in teams when working on various projects and/or assignments. In the past, there have been times, whether in school or on the job, where I have not collaborated with my team members as much when working on...

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About Volunteering

A volunteer is someone who does work without being paid for it, because they want to do it. Volunteering is an act of an individual or group freely giving time and labour for community service.

Formal. Governance. Non-formal. Social action. Project based.

Volunteering is important as it offers essential help to worthwhile causes, people in need, and the wider community. Volunteering combats depression, and helps stay physically healthy.

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