HoundsGood: Chronicles of a Virtual Volunteer

I was lucky. Although my parents didn’t have a lot of money, it was important to them to make sure I didn’t have to work while I was in high school. Granted, I did earn money by babysitting and other teen enterprises, but I didn’t punch a clock. They wanted me to be able to concentrate on school work and to volunteer.  By giving me that, I was better prepared to decide what course of study to take after school, and could do things that would be just a fantasy once I got into the “real world” and had to work.  In some ways, I don’t think I took advantages of as many opportunities as I should have, but on the other hand, I think it allowed me to be a kid just a little longer.  I wasn’t up late hanging outside the kitchen of a restaurant at one A.M.and it gave me a love of volunteering and helping others.

Now, there are broader teen summer community service programs that also provides exposure to travel or another culture. Teens might help build a bridge or rebuild a home, along with experiencing another culture. While I think it is a good thing, what bothered me is that there were never opportunities within our own country, for teens or parents who are reluctant to send then abroad or even to teach that charity begins at home and doesn’t have to be exotic to make a difference. After all, there are so many folks who will send money to causes overseas but will turn their back on a neighbor in need.  Luckily, I have found a few trips that focus on rebuilding homes in the Gulf, or refurbishing structures and playgrounds on tribal lands. Many churches provide missions trips, but there are companies that provide experiences as well.

If you are looking for a bigger experience during the summer than playing video games and you can wait on the babysitting until you get back, you might what to try a week or month long service trip on for size.

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