Make a Difference at Any Age

Never Too Young to Volunteer

By: Paloma Sanchez, Canyon View High School

I have been an active volunteer in my community for as long as I can remember. From joining service clubs in middle school to being a member in the Goodyear Youth Commission, volunteering has brought me so many unique experiences. I wanted to write this article for the youth in Goodyear to show how amazing it is to be involved in the world. There are so many opportunities I have been able to have just by putting myself out there. Goodyear has quickly grown into a beautiful, thriving city. Without the help from the community, things would run quite differently. The actions of the younger population in this city can make a huge impact on the community in so many ways. Volunteering is one way you can contribute, at any age, to make a difference.

Get Involved!

One way I have been able to become a volunteer is through school. Schools have tons of clubs that focus on community service and helping others. This is such an easy way to get more involved at school and with your peers. The city of Goodyear also provides opportunities for people, including youth, to help the community. Make a Difference Day is one example. Although this event only happens once a year, it is a great opportunity for different groups all around the city to come together and work on projects to benefit the community.

Benefits of Youth Volunteering

I had a great time visiting with Angela Tolliver (left) and Evenly Howell (middle) from the Goodyear Human Resources Department. They are the volunteer experts!

Volunteering can help you gain important skills needed throughout your life. I was able to speak with two women in charge of the city’s volunteer program, Angela Tolliver and Evelyn Howell, to get their opinion on youth volunteering. Evelyn explained to me how volunteering can teach young adults to “build and develop relationships.” She said volunteering is an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and meet people of all ages. Angela added, “Volunteering is especially useful for those who are nervous or not used to communicating with others.”

Youth Commission members getting in on the Super Bowl excitement at Goodyear Civic Square.

Dressed up and having fun at the Goodyear Fall Festival. This is a youth commission favorite!

Youth Commission members grabbing a picture after a morning of hard work volunteering for Make A Difference Day.

Talking to teens from across the state at the League of Arizona Cities and Towns Annual Conference about Goodyear and what the commission does to make a difference in the community.

Here are some tips and benefits of volunteering, especially for teens:

• Gain a sense of self awareness, which is amazing to understand when you are younger.

• Collaboration and problem-solving skills. These skills can be vital in classroom, work and social environments.

• Youth are also more likely to make real change themselves when they start experiencing real change happening while volunteering. Build good habits to grow into leaders and changemakers.

• Focusing on others benefits the community and you!

If you are interested in volunteering, get out there! Make the change in your life and the lives of others, you won’t regret it.

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