April, recognized as National Volunteer Month, is a vibrant period that highlights the altruism of individuals and groups committed to making a difference in their communities. Among these community heroes are local high school students whose contributions through volunteering, school activities, and/or civic involvement are particularly noteworthy.

Six students from Conestoga and Great Valley High Schools received recognition for making a difference at the Breakfast of Champions, held at the Upper Main Line YMCA. This event would not have been possible without the ongoing generous donations to the Front Porch Trust Scholarship Fund.

The Trust was initially created by the Paoli 250 Anniversary Committee and the Paoli Business and Professional Association (PBPA), the event organizer.

This year’s sponsors included:

• WSFS Bank, Lead Sponsor
• The Allstate Foundation
• The Allstate Logan Insurance Agency, Paoli
• Matthews Paoli Ford
• Our Deli, Paoli
• J Anderson Wilson
• Edward C Auble
• Lynne Williams – Resumes & LinkedIn | GreatCareers.org
• The Paoli Business and Professional Association
• The Upper Main Line YMCA

The Power of Youth Engagement

High school students bring a unique energy and perspective to volunteerism. Their involvement goes beyond fulfilling school requirements; it’s about shaping their identities and understanding the world around them.

We’ve seen remarkable examples of students leading and participating in various projects—from cultural celebrations promoting diversity, music, art, children, senior citizens, emergency medical services, pediatric cancer, pets, gardening, reading, writing, and much more.

Impact on Local Communities

High school students are often at the forefront of organizing and executing community initiatives in towns and cities across the country.

Educational and Personal Growth

Volunteering allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom in real-world scenarios, enhancing their educational experience. It fosters skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Moreover, the hands-on nature of volunteer work ensures that students gain empathy and a deepened appreciation for diversity and community needs.

Civic Involvement and Future Leadership

High school students’ involvement in civic activities prepares them for future roles as informed and engaged citizens. Whether participating in local government youth councils, leading voter registration drives, or speaking at community forums, these students are laying the groundwork for lifelong engagement in democratic processes.

Encouraging Continued Participation

As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, it’s crucial to encourage and support high school students in their endeavors. Schools, community organizations, and local governments can foster this spirit by providing volunteer opportunities and recognizing and rewarding young volunteers’ efforts.

Recognition of the Local Champions

Beverly Logan, the President of the Front Porch Trust, welcomed everyone at the breakfast. Abby Morgan from Thom Stecher & Associates was the keynote speaker and noted the students’ intrinsic rewards from volunteering.

The students received certificates presented by Jennifer Pyc on behalf of State Representative Melissa Shusterman and MaryAnn Piccioni on behalf of State Representative Kristin Howard. William McGahey of WSFS Bank, president of the Paoli Business and Professional Association, closed the event with words of encouragement.

Here are the “Student Champions” who read their essays to the audience:

CONESTOGA HIGH SCHOOL

• 1st place – Michelle Wei
• 2nd place – Jui Bhatia
• 3rd place – Riley Neilon

GREAT VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

• 1st place – Owen Li
• 2nd place – Joseph Benson
• 3rd place – Sophie Becker

Next Steps on LinkedIn

LinkedIn has a few sections that these students can use to record their impact. The first is Honors & Awards, where they can add this recognition they received. The second is Volunteering, where they can note the details of their efforts. There is also a Projects section, which is appropriate, especially for something like the Boy Scouts Eagle Project or Girl Scouts Gold Award.

To learn more about using LinkedIn or LinkedIn for Nonprofits, check out the upcoming events at the Great Careers Groups!

Conclusion

The enthusiasm and commitment of high school students to volunteerism during April’s National Volunteer Month is inspiring. It’s a testament to the potential of young people to initiate change and make significant contributions to their communities, as noted by Margaret Mead, who stated, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

The student’s actions address immediate community needs and set a foundation for a lifetime of service and civic involvement. As we move forward, let’s continue to support and celebrate these young leaders, who remind us that everyone, regardless of age, has the power to make a difference.

Did you catch the previous article? Update on Collaborative Articles on LinkedIn

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UPCOMING EVENTS – Registration info is on the events page.

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