Your Child Can Make a Difference With Volunteer Alexandria’s Youth Engaged in Service Program
By Marion Brunken
Alexandria, VA – Discover what it means to be an active part of your community with Volunteer Alexandria’s Youth Engaged in Service (YES) Program. This is a free, hands-on opportunity for students in the sixth to through the 12th grade, where they can learn, connect, and give back.
Through this enriching program, students explore local social issues, meet this city’s civic and nonprofit leaders, and participate in meaningful volunteer projects. One past participant shared, “I was able to help my community in ways I didn’t know about before.”
The program follows the P.A.R.E. model—Preparation, Action, Reflection, and Evaluation—which encourages youth to critically reflect on their experiences and apply what they’ve learned.
The impact is clear:
- 94% of participants said they learned how to find meaningful volunteer opportunities
- 98% said they learned how to make Alexandria a better place
Students will:
- Earn community service and service-learning hours
- Engage in thoughtful conversations about real-world issues
- Connect with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds
- Gain exposure to careers in service and nonprofit work
As one student put it, “I enjoyed how all of us came from different backgrounds together with a common goal of helping the community.”
This summer, Volunteer Alexandria is offering YES sessions in June, July, and August. Lunch and snacks are provided, and space is limited. Sign up today at volunteeralexandria.org/youthandfamily.
Volunteering isn’t just for adults—it’s a powerful experience for young people, too. When kids and teens get involved in service, they build confidence, compassion, and a stronger sense of purpose. They begin to understand that their voice and actions matter.
Volunteer Alexandria connects people ages six and up with meaningful ways to give back. From preparing food for families in need to helping local libraries and shelters, there’s something for every age group and interest.
Be part of something bigger. Make your summer count. Register today at www.VolunteerAlexandria.org or use QR code Top of Form
Saturday, June 7, Volunteer for the Arts & Crafts Fair — Set-up, serve beverages, manage traffic, or assist vendors at the annual Arts & Crafts Fair at Waterfront Park.
Help Others Learn English — Project Access is seeking a teaching assistant to help English language learners. Assistants would assist the primary teacher, provide one-on-one and small group support, and take attendance.
Volunteer for a Museum — Engage visitors, support staff members, assist with events, and provide tours as a docent volunteer for the Lee-Fendall Museum. Six hours a month is expected. Training will be provided.
Deliver Groceries to Seniors in Need — Senior Services of Alexandria is seeking volunteers to deliver groceries to seniors in need. Volunteers are most needed on the first Thursday in the month, but deliveries are flexible during the week.
Help Students Learn to Read This Summer — NOVA Raft is an organization that helps Afghan refugees resettle in the region. They need volunteers to help tutor students and chaperone field trips during their summer camp. Training is provided.
Protect Children and Vulnerable People Online – Help shape the strategic direction and work closely with the day-to-day operations of DEFEND, an organization that aims to reduce online risks for children and vulnerable people.
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