So many people think the teen years are for partying, having fun, and creating a bridge into adulthood. Truthfully though, teens have been some of the most influential people in history.
From courageous teens like the girl who stood up for education, to the 17-year-old who spoke up in the heart of Nazi Germany, despite many adults being too afraid to. Teens have written bestsellers to help millions of other teenagers, started million-dollar corporations, and more than one teenager has been known to monetize their social media platform and inspire millions of teenagers around the world. And I can’t forget this brilliant 13-year-old who created a braille printer out of LEGOs!
In big ways or small, here are ten ways teenagers like you and me can make a difference!
1. Volunteer
There are a ton of places that could use volunteers every single day to help out. You are able to volunteer at places such as nursing homes simply spending time with the elderly, soup kitchens serving meals to the less fortunate, or really anywhere people are in need of help. For about a year, I volunteered at a local library (which was also great work experience).
2. Tutor Younger Children
A lot of younger kids struggle with school work and sometimes do not cooperate well with teachers or learn from adults in general. They could possibly relate better to a teenager and someone who is a bit closer in age to them.
3. Donate
If you are someone who likes to shop, try donating older clothes that you don’t need anymore. For every new clothing item that you get, try donating an old item. This way your closet doesn’t get too jam packed, and you’re also helping others out.
4. Collect Soda Tabs/Cans
The environment is always in need of some love and attention and there are a ton of ways that teens can help out. You can gather up a few friends from school and go door to door to collect soda tabs and cans. Turn them in for money, or donate the tabs to St Jude’s. Inspire others to conserve their energy and create a healthier, better environment!
5. Pay it Forward
Doing a simple act of kindness can make a difference in someone’s day, every day. For example, holding a door open for someone, or paying for their food order are just simple things to brighten up a person’s day.
6. Attend a Mission
There are plenty of organizations and churches that host missions for less fortunate countries. You are able to attend one of these missions and build homes, or help to purify water for those who are not lucky enough to have that privilege. This is such a rewarding experience and really benefits those in need.
7. Make Up Care Packages for Military
It is such a noble honor to serve in our military and we should do whatever we can to thank them for their services. A great way you can do this is by making up care packages and shipping them to a base. You can ask those around you to help donate and you can really make a difference for those military representatives.
8. Get First Aid Certification
Another great way you can make a difference is to get your first aid certification because you never know what is going to happen while you’re out. If someone were to start choking while you are out at a restaurant, you could help. Or if someone passes out in public, you can help get them breathing again with your certification and training.
9. Mentor
Since starting my own business and graduating from a program called the Young Entrepreneurs Academy, this has been my second year volunteering as a mentor. It’s rewarding to see teens my age starting their own business and achieving many things, and I love giving back in areas I’m passionate about!
10. Clean Up Around the Neighborhood
Unfortunately, people litter all the time which is absolutely horrible for the environment, and can be dangerous for the children and the wildlife. If you want to help out, walk around your neighborhood picking up all the trash that is around and make your area a healthier, and happier, place to live.
It is so important to help out the community that you live in. There are so many ways that you can make a difference at any age. We should work together to do good deeds every day and make the world a better place for all of us to live in.
I’d also love to recommend teens choosing a birthday to make their presents about someone else. Celebrate the gift of giving by asking for gifts that are for someone else. We like to call it – becoming a MOB’er. My One Birthday encourages kids to pick just One Birthday and give. What a difference it could make!!
I like that you suggest teens mentor someone to help them become motivated. Teens are an amazing part of society and I think motivating them is very important. I think that having someone come and speak to large groups of teens could be very beneficial in this field. I wonder how many schools or programs consider having motivational speakers.