#AloneTogether

Colleges like to see how students contribute to their communities, particularly when that service is meaningful (read: not just a random compilation of hours to fill NHS requirements). And while current shelter-in-place orders mean that the majority of students are stuck mostly at home, there are ways that teens can help their communities. In fact, now may be the perfect time to explore a passion or interest while giving back to the community at the same time. Some ideas:

Assist Seniors

Yes, they need assistance with grocery deliveries and yard work, but seniors in your area may also need some social interaction--especially if they live alone or far from relatives. Consider making a video call to check in with a neighbor or write postcards to seniors in retirement communities. Aspire to Age is currently looking for local volunteers to participate in 20-minute calls/video chats with lonely seniors. Get inspired by this teen-developed website, ZoomerstoBoomers.com.

Provide Online Tutoring

Use social media and sites like NextDoor to offer virtual tutoring services or make a series of classes/tutorials and post them on YouTube. Check out Quarantutors, a company that matches students with tutors all over the country.

Code for Good

There are lots of ways to put your programming skills to use for the greater good from home. Check out: Code for Social Good, Benetech, or DonateCode. You may also consider developing apps or websites for fundraising and volunteer efforts in your community.

Take Your Talent Online

Have a performing or visual art talent? Organize or participate in a virtual performance/concert as free community entertainment or as a fundraiser. Many small businesses are struggling, so see where you might be able to pitch in--maybe a dance or music studio could use you right now!

Start a Donation Drive

Collect donations from families, friends and neighbors and offer to pick up bagged items for delivery to local non-profits.

More Resources

Visit VolunteerMatch.org for urgent needs in your area (from sewing masks to blood drives);

The Austin Chronicle has lots more ideas for local engagement, as well.

UN Online Volunteering hosts international service opportunities.