Top 12 Summer Volunteer Programs for High Schoolers

Twelve Impactful Summer Volunteer Programs for High School Students

Summer break is an excellent time for high school students to give back to their communities, build new skills, and explore their interests through volunteer work. Volunteering not only allows students to make a meaningful impact but also helps them develop leadership abilities, empathy, and experiences that stand out on college applications.

Below are 12 impactful summer volunteer programs tailored for high school students looking to make a difference, with detailed descriptions and links to get you started.

1. Habitat for Humanity

Focus: Affordable housing construction
Opportunities: Join local chapters to build homes for families in need, assist with fundraising events, or participate in global housing initiatives.
Why Join: Learn practical construction skills, teamwork, and the rewarding value of providing safe housing to underserved communities.
Who It’s For: Students interested in hands-on, physical activities and creating a direct impact in their communities.

Why It Stands Out: Habitat for Humanity empowers volunteers to actively address housing insecurity while building a sense of connection and teamwork.

2. American Red Cross

Focus: Disaster relief and community health
Opportunities: Assist with blood drives, support community preparedness education, or contribute to disaster relief efforts.
Why Join: Gain emergency response skills and experience with one of the most recognized humanitarian organizations in the world.
Who It’s For: Students passionate about healthcare, public safety, or disaster management.

Why It Stands Out: The Red Cross combines immediate impact with valuable skills that are applicable in emergencies and healthcare careers.

3. National Park Service

Focus: Environmental conservation
Opportunities: Volunteer as a junior ranger, assist with trail maintenance, lead educational tours, or participate in wildlife preservation projects.
Why Join: Develop environmental stewardship while exploring breathtaking natural landscapes and learning about conservation.
Who It’s For: Outdoor enthusiasts and students with an interest in environmental science or natural resources.

Why It Stands Out: Working with the National Park Service offers unparalleled access to nature and conservation efforts.

4. Meals on Wheels

Focus: Providing meals to seniors
Opportunities: Deliver meals to homebound seniors, assist with food preparation, or contribute to administrative support.
Why Join: Build connections with elderly community members while addressing food security challenges.
Who It’s For: Compassionate students interested in direct community service and helping vulnerable populations.

Why It Stands Out: Meals on Wheels fosters intergenerational bonds and provides meaningful one-on-one interactions.

5. UNICEF Volunteer Program

Focus: Advocacy for children’s rights
Opportunities: Fundraise for global initiatives, spread awareness about health and education for children, or help organize local UNICEF events.
Why Join: Contribute to addressing critical issues like child poverty, education, and health access.
Who It’s For: Globally minded students interested in social justice and advocacy.

Why It Stands Out: As a UNICEF volunteer, you’ll make a global impact by contributing to initiatives that support vulnerable children worldwide.

6. Local Animal Shelters

Focus: Animal care and adoption advocacy
Opportunities: Feed and care for shelter animals, organize adoption events, or promote shelter initiatives through social media.
Why Join: Foster responsibility and compassion while helping animals find loving homes.
Who It’s For: Animal lovers passionate about improving animal welfare and raising awareness.

Why It Stands Out: Animal shelters provide a rewarding experience that combines hands-on work with community advocacy.

7. Special Olympics

Focus: Inclusive sports for individuals with disabilities
Opportunities: Volunteer at sports events, support athletes during training sessions, or help organize community initiatives.
Why Join: Promote inclusion and empathy while supporting individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.
Who It’s For: Students who value teamwork, sportsmanship, and community building.

Why It Stands Out: Special Olympics creates a uniquely inclusive environment where volunteers and participants inspire each other.

8. Environmental Organizations

Focus: Sustainability and climate action
Opportunities: Participate in local cleanups, plant trees, or advocate for climate-friendly policies with organizations like the Sierra Club.
Why Join: Learn about environmental issues while actively contributing to solutions that improve the planet’s health.
Who It’s For: Students eager to address environmental challenges and take action for sustainability.

Why It Stands Out: Environmental volunteering allows you to make a tangible difference in your local ecosystem.

9. Youth Mentoring Programs

Focus: Mentorship and academic support
Opportunities: Volunteer with programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters or Boys & Girls Clubs to mentor younger students, help with homework, or lead recreational activities.
Why Join: Build leadership skills while positively impacting the next generation.
Who It’s For: Students who enjoy teaching and guiding others.

Why It Stands Out: Youth mentoring fosters meaningful relationships and provides a chance to serve as a role model.

10. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

Focus: Patient care and support services
Opportunities: Volunteer in hospitals or nursing homes by greeting patients, assisting with non-medical tasks, or organizing activities for residents.
Why Join: Gain exposure to healthcare careers and develop an understanding of compassionate care.
Who It’s For: Students considering careers in medicine, nursing, or healthcare administration.

Why It Stands Out: Volunteering in healthcare environments provides hands-on experience in a field that directly impacts lives.

11. Community Gardens and Urban Farms

Focus: Sustainable agriculture and food security
Opportunities: Help plant, harvest, and maintain gardens or participate in workshops on sustainable farming.
Why Join: Learn about sustainable food systems while contributing to food access in underserved areas.
Who It’s For: Students passionate about environmental science, food justice, or healthy living.

Why It Stands Out: Community gardens create opportunities to connect with nature and understand local food systems.

12. Virtual Volunteering

Focus: Online community engagement
Opportunities: Tutor peers, manage social media for nonprofits, or join global initiatives like the United Nations Online Volunteering program.
Why Join: Flexible options that let you contribute without needing transportation or a physical presence.
Who It’s For: Tech-savvy students with busy schedules or logistical limitations.

Why It Stands Out: Virtual volunteering offers accessibility and global reach, allowing you to contribute from anywhere.

How to Get Started

1. Research Your Options: Explore organizations that align with your interests and values.
2. Apply Early: Many programs have limited spots or application deadlines.
3. Prepare for Involvement: Be ready to commit your time and energy to make the most of your experience.
4. Document Your Experience: Track your hours and accomplishments to include on college applications and resumes.

Make an Impact This Summer

Volunteering is more than just a way to spend your summer—it’s an opportunity to grow personally, contribute to meaningful causes, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, helping animals, or mentoring children, these programs provide opportunities to make a real difference.

Take the first step today by exploring the links above and finding the summer volunteer program that’s the perfect fit for you!