More Volunteer Ideas for Teens

Being a volunteer is a powerful way for teens to try something different that benefits them and their community. Whether it’s building a house, teaching a younger student, or cleaning up a local park, volunteering opens doors to new experiences and perspectives. This worthy endeavor isn’t just about helping others — it’s about growing as a person and feeling a sense of accomplishment. You’ll develop valuable life skills like empathy, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Most importantly, you connect with your communities and make a positive impact on the world around you while fostering your sense of social responsibility and even a lifelong passion for service.

Additionally, many schools require students to achieve a certain number of service hours. If your teen is looking for  ideas to volunteer, here are even more great places to start.

Literacy and Education

1. East End House. This Cambridge-based community center offers comprehensive services to support the well-being, academic success, and transition to adulthood for under-resourced children and youth. Volunteers can assist with administration, community programs, mentoring, special projects, childcare, or the school-age, middle school, and food programs. No age restrictions were provided. Check the website for more information.

2. Hill House. This community-based center offers programs and services for individuals and families in Boston’s downtown and Beacon Hill neighborhoods. It provides activities, including early childhood, youth development, adult classes, and community events. Volunteers help run athletic programs in the fall, winter, and spring. No age restrictions were provided. Check the website for more information.

Friends of the Elderly

3. Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly (LBFE). This national network is committed to relieving isolation and loneliness among elderly people. LBFE believes in fostering meaningful connections and bringing joy into the lives of their “elder friends” through different programs and activities. The Boston chapter actively encourages intergenerational connections and welcomes teen volunteers. No specific information was provided about volunteer requirements — email info@lbfeboston.org for more information. You can also visit the website.

4. PuzzlesToRemember. This nonprofit organization provides jigsaw puzzles specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, distributing them to care facilities, hospitals, and individuals at no cost. If you’re interested in setting up your own PuzzlesToRemember service locally, visit the website for more information or email Puzzles2Remember@gmail.com.

5. South Shore Elder Services. This organization’s mission is to promote and maintain a high level of elder independence through coordinating resources, advocacy, and caregiver support. Volunteers can participate in the Friendly Visitor Program, where they’re matched with homebound seniors. No age restriction was provided. Check the website for more information.

Community Outreach

6. American Red Cross of Massachusetts. This local chapter provides many different services, including disaster relief, preparedness, health & safety, and courses in CPR, first aid, water safety, and more. Each chapter has different opportunities for teens to volunteer. Check the website or email mavolunteers@redcross.org for more information.

7. Boston Cares. As the largest volunteer agency in New England, Boston Cares connects individuals and groups who want to volunteer with nonprofit organizations and schools needing their support. It’s a great first stop for researching volunteer opportunities. You can create an online account on their website. New volunteers are encouraged to attend a New Volunteer Orientation (you pay a one-time $35 fee). The website includes a calendar with various ongoing and one-off projects based on location, impact area, age requirements, and more. There are specific guidelines and waiver requirements for youth volunteers under 18. Visit the website for more information.

8. Household Goods Recycling of Massachusetts (HGRM). HGRM’s mission is to provide recycled household goods, free of charge, to families and individuals in need in surrounding communities. The organization’s goal is to help people establish a functional, dignified living environment. Teens ages 14 and up can volunteer on Saturdays, during school breaks, and over the summer to work with clients, sort and prepare items, and more. Visit the website for more information.

9. United Way of Massachusetts Bay & Merrimack Valley. The mission of this nonprofit organization is to create positive, lasting change for people in need across the region. They focus on uniting individuals, nonprofits, companies, and government agencies to address critical issues. The organization’s searchable database offers opportunities for teen volunteers to get involved. No age requirements are listed. Visit the website for more information.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services