Student volunteering is more than just a small act of kindness. It creates meaningful, long-lasting change. The impact on both volunteers and their communities goes far beyond what many expect. By helping others through school organizations such as Key Club and the National Honor Society, students build confidence, learn time management, improve academically and develop leadership skills that shape their high school experience and future goals.
Teens who volunteer regularly are 50% less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse. Giving back to the community does more than just help others, it can also guide students toward better choices. Volunteering gives teens a positive way to spend their time while making a real impact.
“In NHS, there’s a big focus on the community and so I get to partake in different events, such as the coffee house and the blood drive. But I like that I can now be part of that and I can help volunteer in it,” senior NHS member and peer helper William Price said.
Student volunteers build real-world skills such as leadership, patience and respect for different cultures. These experiences help them grow not only in school but also in life outside the classroom. Through community service, students learn how to work with others and understand different perspectives.
“Volunteering has strengthened my sense of leadership, responsibility and commitment. You have to show up, put in effort and be kind to everyone. I do swim and dive. After the girls’ season, we are able to volunteer for the boys’ season and the team is such a family. It’s nice to give back to the coaches who supported you during your season,” junior NHS member and Key Club treasurer Marie Fedorova said.
Students who volunteer often see improvements in their academic performance. Balancing service with school responsibilities can build stronger time management and a greater sense of accountability. Junior NHS officer, Stella Wilcek said she has, “made volunteering a social activity,” by finding opportunities to do with her friends, allowing her to balance service, academics and her social life at the same time. These habits can support both short-term success and long-term goals.
Volunteering during high school can also shape what students choose to do after graduation. Students who volunteer are more likely to continue giving back as adults, showing how early involvement can develop into lifelong habits and interests.
Junior NHS member Reese Bockman, who currently tutors students during NHS office hours, said she hopes to continue volunteering in the future, likely through tutoring, because she enjoys learning while helping others understand new material.
Service also helps students build confidence in their ability to create change. In fact, about 73% of teen volunteers believe they can make a real difference in their communities. This sense of purpose encourages students to continue giving back and inspires others to do the same.
“Volunteering is incredibly fulfilling to me. It feels good to help others and I generally come away from volunteering with a positive attitude for the day. I’ve done various volunteering opportunities throughout middle and high school with places like Valley Friendship, the Rotary Club and elementary schools within the district. However, one of my favorite volunteering opportunities was with the Minnesota Master Naturalist Program that hosted an opportunity near Stillwater to remove buckthorn,” Wilcek said.
Student volunteering continues to shape both communities and the students involved. Through service, students gain confidence, build essential life skills and develop a stronger sense of responsibility. While the impact may begin small, it often grows into lasting change that influences future choices, goals and the roles they take on in life.
