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TEEN AND COLLEGE STUDENT VOLUNTEER DIGITAL GUIDE
SHARE Charlotte’s mission is to build a better Charlotte by EMPOWERING NONPROFITS AND HELPING PEOPLE INVEST IN THEIR COMMUNITIES in ways that matter most to them.
The #1 use of our website, sharecharlotte.org is to find volunteer opportunities with our 760+ nonprofit partners that serve Mecklenburg County.
As a busy teen or college student, we can be the resource you need to find volunteer opportunities to not only fulfill your service hours requirements but also your desire to give back in your community.
BENEFITS of Volunteering for Students
It’s no secret that helping others and contributing to one’s community through positive, impactful action makes people feel good. For students, spending some time volunteering can be especially beneficial in various ways.
1. CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR COMMUNITY -
Volunteering allows students to give their time and talents to support a cause that’s important to them.
2. REDUCE STRESS -
Volunteering has been shown to help reduce and counteract the adverse effects of stress and anxiety. We feel better when we help others, make a positive impact, and become a part of something bigger than ourselves.
3. EXPAND YOUR NETWORK -
By volunteering students can expand their overall network of diverse mentors and peers. Their new connections - volunteers, employees, board members — can potentially become a mentor or open up some professional doors for in the future.
4. BUILD YOUR RESUME -
Students are doing volunteer work to set themselves apart in a stack of applicants. Even when students have top grades and test scores, employers may want to see relevant work experience on a resume. The good news is that it doesn’t matter if it comes from paid or unpaid work! Service-learning offers skills-building opportunities while improving the lives of others. The hands-on learning inherent to volunteer work gives students the competitive edge needed to enter the job market.
5. EXPAND YOUR PERSPECTIVE -
If you only surround yourself with people in your bubble, it can be hard to understand how complex your community is. Volunteering can be a great way to expand your perspective and see the challenges in other parts of your community to increase empathy and gratitude.
Garrett Educational Consulting Inspired
Insight into Academic Success
At Garrett Educational Consulting, we help students and families navigate the admissions process with confidence. Founded by Certified Educational Planner Katie Garrett, and backed by 20+ years of experience, we specialize in helping students find schools and colleges where they will thrive.
SERVICES
College Admissions:
We help students and parents navigate the college application process with less stress and more confidence, from building balanced school lists to managing essays and deadlines. Our comprehensive counseling can begin as early as freshman year, with standalone application and essay support starting in the spring of junior year. For our comprehensive clients, we also offer exclusive opportunities such as mentored research and internships.
Boarding School Admissions:
We help families explore a wide range of boarding schools - from specialized programs to unique extracurricular offerings. Then, we guide you through every step of the boarding school process - planning visits, SSAT Flex Test administration, preparing for interviews, and supporting applications.
Plus: Gap Year Planning, Study Abroad Advising, and SSAT Flex Test Administration
If you are looking for expert guidance tailored to your student, we’re here to help!
Learn More
“Worth every penny. Different kids, different high schools. Katie just ‘gets’ teenagers. They both adore her.”
ADA JENKINS CENTER
We help people create lasting pathways to economic stability, empowering individuals and communities to thrive with independence, dignity, and opportunity.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer with LEARN Works: After-school tutoring and mentoring for students 16+.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 15 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES:
Create bulletin boards, Social media posts, Newsletter stories
CONTACT: Leslie Wilson, leslie.wilson@adajenkins.org
ANNE SPRINGS CLOSE GREENWAY
We connect people with nature through recreation and education, inspiring passion for conservation, protecting wildlife habitats, and preserving natural resources.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer for Second Saturday of Service or help with parking at Boil, Brew & Cue and Family Farm Days.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
No minimum group size, maximum 20. Students under 16 must be accompanied by a volunteering adult.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support
CONTACT: Danielle Holmes, DanielleHolmes@ascgreenway.org
ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION
We empower people with arthritis through events, education, volunteers, and support—raising awareness, funding research, and advancing toward a cure.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer for Charlotte Jingle Bell Run at Truist Field
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
No minimum group size, maximum 25 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Fundraising & Event support
CONTACT: Juliane Kilcoyne, jkilcoyne@arthritis.org
BEATTIES FORD ROAD VOCATIONAL
TRADE CENTER
We offer training in trades and media, empowering underserved individuals toward economic self-sufficiency through education and counseling.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1–3 students, maximum 4–8 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content, Marketing, Photography
CONTACT: Donnell Dixson, toolbagforsuccess@gmail.com
CHAMPION HOUSE OF CARE PROJECT ONE, INC.
We support homeless families on Sugar Creek and I-85, providing resources, education, skills training, community programs, and compassionate, person-centered care.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Group opportunities available for up to 25 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content, Website design, Photography
CONTACT: Robin Ratliff, ratliff.robin@gmail.com
CHARLOTTE BLACK DOGS
We raise awareness of Black Dog Syndrome, educating the public, fostering understanding, and encouraging adoption and compassionate care for black dogs.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer for our Santa Photo Fundraiser and Paws in the Park community activities.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
No minimum group size, maximum 8 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event Support and Photography
CONTACT: Donna A. Peters, Charlotteblackdogs@gmail.com
CHARLOTTE WINE + FOOD WEEK
We unite global wine experts and top local chefs to celebrate cuisine, educate the public, and support children’s charities.
OPPORTUNITIES: Spring 2026 College Student Internship: Mid-Jan through Early May
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Minimum 1–3 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content and Photography
CONTACT: Lauren Deese, ldeese@charlottewineandfood.org
CHARLOTTE MECKLENBURG DREAM CENTER
Our mission is to transform lives by sharing the hope, love, and transformative power of the Gospel with all people.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at Adopt A Block, Kids Jam, Food Market, Friday Night Street Ministry, Youth Night events
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Student participation varies by event.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support
CONTACT: Kelly Trott, Kelly@cltdc.org
CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CHARLOTTE
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte inspires generations through professional theatre and innovative education, engaging young people and families in the wonder and joy of storytelling.
OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteer usher at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte productions
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Minimum is 1 student, maximum 20 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support
CONTACT: Cassandra Wiselka, volunteer@ctcharlotte.org
EMBRACE CAROLINAS
We are a multilingual, trauma-sensitive nonprofit in the Carolinas connecting families to health, education, social support, and economic opportunities through culturally competent programs.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 12 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support highlighting Brazilian and Latin heritage.
CONTACT: Patrick Garcia, contato@embracecarolinas.org
EVOLUTIONARY AQUATICSONE
Evolutionary Aquatics builds a healthy, inclusive swim and kayak community, empowering Black and African-American adults through equitable access, support, and aquatic experiences.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at support swim meets and Hot Chocolate Race
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 15 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support
CONTACT: Nadine Ford, NadineF@easwim.org
FEEDING CHARLOTTE
We rescue surplus meals from restaurants and institutions, delivering them to local nonprofits, reducing food waste, and feeding food-insecure community members.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Join our dedicated Hunger Heroes volunteer team
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Students 18+ may participate alone. 16–17 or younger/ non-driving students require a parent/guardian.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Photography and Videography
CONTACT: Suzanne D’Alonzo, Suzanne@FeedingCharlotte.org
FEEDNC
We create meaningful connections to food, education, and resources, acting as a catalyst for positive community change and impact.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Build a Blessing Bag, Organize a non-perishable food drive.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Minimum 8 student, maximum 16 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event support
CONTACT: Stephanie Coffel, scoffel@feednc.org
FOSTER VILLAGE CHARLOTTE
We engage teens, and completing the program earns participants six service hours while fostering community involvement and advocacy skills.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
The program is self-paced, allowing students to participate individually or with others.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social Media content and Photography
CONTACT: Meredith Barbee, meredith@fostervillagecharlotte.org
GenerationNation
GenerationNation empowers future civic leaders by providing K-12 students with civic literacy education, hands-on leadership experiences, and opportunities to actively engage in their communities.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Join Youth Lead CharlotteMecklenburg: meet peers, explore government, learn equity, opportunity, leadership.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: The program is self-paced, allowing students to participate individually .
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: High school students: join CMYC to advise leaders, explore issues, and build civic leadership.
CONTACT: Amy Farrell, amy@generationnation.org
GIRL MAGIC INCORPORATED
We mentor girls ages 10–17, providing tutoring, life skills, and confidence-building programs to empower academic success, leadership, and self-sufficiency.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Tutor in reading and basic math and engage effectively with young learners.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 4 students per group.
CONTACT: Patricia Malone, contact@girlmagicinc.org
GREATER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
We empower scholars and families through high-quality after school and summer programs, fostering academic growth, creativity, leadership, and character development.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Student Club Assistant – Help teachers run clubs by coordinating meetings, supporting activities, and engaging students.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 5 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Capture moments and collaborate with our Social Media Director.
CONTACT: E”Tiana Smith & Sarah Luna, esmith@gepinc.org & sluna@gepinc.org
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF THE CHARLOTTE REGION
We brings people together to build homes, strengthen communities, foster hope, and create lasting opportunities for families.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteers 14+ can help at ReStore; volunteers 16+ can join Construction projects.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 4 student, maximum 20 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Learn the trade—every construction volunteer gains hands-on experience!
CONTACT: Katie Miller, kmiller@habitatcltregion.org
HEART MATH TUTORING
We recruit volunteers to provide one-on-one tutoring in Charlotte elementary schools, helping economically disadvantaged students fill math gaps with engaging, approved curriculum.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer tutor opportunity for college students; tutors must be 18+ and cannot be current K–12 students
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Join us! We’re looking for around 1,300 volunteer tutors for the 2025–26 school year.
CONTACT: Rachel Allman, rachel.allman@heartmathtutoring.org
HOPE FOR HARVEST YOUTH CENTER
We positively impact underprivileged children and families by providing resources, education, and enrichment, supporting every child’s chance to thrive and build a brighter future.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Assist after-school program, organize supplies, support tutors, and community events.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Student participation varies by event.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Photography, Social media content, after-school activities and organizing supplies
CONTACT: Casey Connors, cconnors@hopeforharvest.org
HopeWay
HopeWay is a nonprofit mental health center offering evidence-based, holistic care for teens and adults while promoting education and reducing stigma.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Create flower arrangements, write uplifting journal messages, and assemble notebooks for treatment clients.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 5 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteer photographers needed to capture events and projects
CONTACT: Rachel Blake, rachel.blake@hopeway.org
JUMPING
DREAMS
DOUBLE DUTCH
We are a youth development organization promoting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of children ages 6–16 through engaging activities.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 4 student, maximum 10 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES:
After-School Tutor, Fundraising & Event Support, Social Media content, and Photography
CONTACT: Angeilcka Crawford, admin@jumpingdreamsdd.org
LET ME RUN
We empower boys in grades 3–8 to reach their potential, teaching life skills, confidence, and social-emotional growth through running.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Teens (under 18) needed to volunteer at Let Me Run 5K and CPI Turkey Trot; adults 18+ welcome as coaches.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Individual students or groups (max 30) welcome; small coaching groups of 2–3 college students work best.
CONTACT: Nikki Prenoveau, nikkip@letmerun.org
LiveLearnPlay
Our mission is to empower and engage underserved youth and families, fostering equity while improving their mental health, physical wellness, and overall resilience.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer with us at quarterly street cleanup events to improve our community.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 20 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES:
Social media content, Photography and Website design
CONTACT: Dominique Bostic-Arrington, livelearnplayclt@gmail.com
MATTHEWS PLAYHOUSE
We are a community theater inspiring, entertaining, and educating all ages through high-quality live productions, classes, and engaging outreach programs.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Matthews Playhouse is in search of Greeters, Ushers, and Marketplace Assistants for our Mainstage productions
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Groups of 2–15 students welcome, depending on placement.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Scene Shop Help: Build sets, paint scenery, and gather props for productions.
CONTACT: Gretchen Gaertner, ggaertner@matthewsplayhouse.com
MENDING STRIDES RANCH
Mending Strides Ranch connects people with horses, fostering healing relationships that support growth, resilience, and improved mental health through equine-assisted experiences.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer for Stable Barn, pasture maintenance, gardening, and landscaping tasks.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 10 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Fundraising & Event Support, Social Media content and Photography
CONTACT: Susan Anthony, mendingstridesvolunteer@gmail.com
NC YOUTH ENRICHMENT SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT INC.
We empower underserved youth ages 7–17 through mentoring, enrichment, and community engagement, providing guidance, support, and resources to develop skills and reach potential.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Virtual mentoring and community service
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 2 student, maximum 10 students per group.
CONTACT: Precious Moss, Info@northcarolinayess.org
PHILIPS ACADEMY OF NC
We are a middle and high school for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities, offering academics, job training, and independent living skills.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Assist with clubs and events and help engage students in learning and activities.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 10 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event Support, Social Media content and Photography
CONTACT: Susie Crain, scrain@philipsacademync.org
PIEDMONT MUSIC THERAPY
Creative arts organization providing transformative music therapy services for children and adults across greater Charlotte, enhancing well-being, self-expression, and community connection through music.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Support programs by designing graphics, organizing resources, updating media, creating content, and photographing events.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 12 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES:
Fundraising & Event Support, Social Media content and Photography
CONTACT: Gretchen Benner, director@piedmontmusictherapy.com
QUEEN CITY ROBOTICS ALLIANCE
We inspire and preparing students for future careers through hands-on robotics, coding, and STEM experiences in a team-based, community-driven environment.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteers who are familiar with computers, coding, or robotics is helpful but often not required.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 10 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Computer and Organization Skills
CONTACT: Kaiwen Cheng, kaiwencheng@queencityrobotics.org
SHELTER HEALTH SERVICES
We help people create lasting pathways to economic stability, empowering individuals and communities to thrive with independence, dignity, and opportunity.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 10 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content and Website design
CONTACT: Iris Smalls Hubbard, ishubbard@shsclinic.org
SPECIAL OLYMPICS NORTH CAROLINA
We connect people with nature through recreation and education, inspiring passion for conservation, protecting wildlife habitats, and preserving natural resources.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Special Olympics North Carolina - 2025 Fall Tournament, Special Olympics North Carolina - Bocce and Golf programs
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 15 students per group aged 14 and up.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event Support, Social media content and Photography
CONTACT: Kathy Langfield, Volunteers@sonc.net
THE ACADEMY OF GOAL ACHIEVERS
We empower people with arthritis through events, education, volunteers, and support—raising awareness, funding research, and advancing toward a cure.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
No minimum group size, maximum 82 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content and Photography
CONTACT: Aneesa Abdul-Rahim, Abdul-rahim@taogainc.org
THE GO JEN GO FOUNDATION
We offer training in trades and media, empowering underserved individuals toward economic self-sufficiency through education and counseling.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at Pink Out Days, Pink Lemonade Stands, Hope in a Box supply drives, Operate Spread The Joy Holiday campaign events
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Groups welcome—meeting anywhere!
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event Support and Photography
CONTACT: Jennifer Branham, jenb@gojengo.org
THE KAIZEN FOUNDATION OF NORTH CAROLINA
We support homeless families on Sugar Creek and I-85, providing resources, education, skills training, community programs, and compassionate, person-centered care.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at Charlotte FC & Carolina Panthers Games: Assist with merchandise sales in the Fanatics stores.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 6 student, maximum 20 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content, Photography and Website design
CONTACT: Janet Beamer, Janet@tkfnc.org
THE PARK COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
We raise awareness of Black Dog Syndrome, educating the public, fostering understanding, and encouraging adoption and compassionate care for black dogs.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Urban Farm Support: Volunteers help with garden tasks such as planting seeds, flowers, filling beds and harvesting produce.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 2 student, maximum 15 students per group.
CONTACT: Lauren Grant, volunteer@theparkcdc.org
THE PROGRESS XCHANGE
We support high school students’ academic success and college readiness by providing comprehensive ACT exam preparation and guidance toward higher education.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 2 student, maximum 4 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES:
Social media content, Photography and Website design
CONTACT: Darren A. Barreto, contact@progressxchange.org
THE SALVATION ARMY OF GREATER CHARLOTTE
We are a global Christian organization sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs with compassion, service, and inclusivity.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at the Red Shield Youth Center Learning Lab! Help students with homework, tutoring, reading, and creative projects.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 2 student, maximum 10 students per group.
CONTACT: Sarah Gamble, sarah.gamble@uss.salvationarmy.org
UNITY CLASSICAL CHARTER SCHOOL
We are a tuition-free, values-based K–8 public charter in Charlotte, providing highquality education that prepares students for academic success and leadership.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Philanthropic volunteers for school events, fundraisers, and community outreach.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 5 student, maximum 12 students per group.
CONTACT: Monica Carr, mcarr@unityclassical.org
RIGHT MOVES FOR YOUTH (RMFY)
We are a group mentoring organization helping middle and high school students access support, connections, and opportunities to achieve future success.
OPPORTUNITIES:
We are seeking student storytellers to capture and share inspiring real-life stories of Charlotte teens overcoming challenges and pursuing their dreams.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteer remotely !
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content and writing
CONTACT: Ryan Grammatico, rgrammatico@rightmovesforyouth.org
WYTV7 COMMUNITY BROADCASTERS NETWORKONE
We are a media organization using storytelling and educational content to inspire, empower, and inform individuals and communities.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer and help pack Kits4Kids (mental health/wellness kits),
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Minimum 6 student, maximum 8 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Graphic Designer for Social media content
CONTACT: Libby Grier, info@wytv7.org
YOUTH MEDITATION
We teach children and adults mindfulness and meditation skills, helping them manage stress, anxiety, anger, and depression while building resilience and thriving daily.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Join our 8-week Mindfulness Meditation course
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES: Student participation varies by event.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content and writing
CONTACT: Angela Gala, angela@youthmeditation.org
ZABS PLACE
ZABS Place, a nonprofit thrift boutique in Matthews, NC, empowers young adults with special talents, creating opportunities and community in Charlotte.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Help create social media reels showcasing ZABS Place mission, talent, and unique thrift boutique experience.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 8 students per group
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social Media, Reel Creation, Photo Creation, Painting
CONTACT: Bentzion Groner, bentzion@zabsplace.org
ZEALOUS EMPOWERING NURTURER
We empower Charlotte communities through hands-on gardening education, fresh produce access, and programs that promote health, self-sufficiency, and meaningful community engagement.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Volunteer at our ZEN Garden Work Days, Lula’s Garden Club, and Communal Garden Programs
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 5 student, maximum 40 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Social media content, Photography and Website design
CONTACT: April Booker, Zealousempoweringnurturer@gmail.com
ASSIST ME
We provide gently used medical equipment to uninsured, low-income patients with limited mobility, improving independence, safety, and access to daily life.
OPPORTUNITIES:
We need volunteers to assist with donated medical equipment pickup and delivery.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES:
Minimum 1 student, maximum 6 students per group.
SKILLS BASED OPPORTUNITIES: Event Support, Social media content, Photography
CONTACT: Sherry Simpson, sherrysimpson016@gmail.com
A Volunteer’s Perspective
“This summer, I sought volunteer opportunities to fulfill college and fraternity requirements. While I was unsure of what to expect, I knew I wanted to contribute in a way that would benefit children. SHARE Charlotte proved to be an invaluable resource, connecting me with Beds for Kids. What began as a simple requirement quickly grew into an experience that has profoundly shaped my perspective.
Through my service, I gained a deeper appreciation for teamwork and collaboration with fellow volunteers, while also becoming more aware of areas of Charlotte I might never have encountered otherwise. I was struck by the significant needs within our community—families without basic furnishings, children sleeping on floors, and households without a dinner table to share a meal.
The gratitude from the families we served was both humbling and inspiring. Many offered to assist in assembling the beds, eager to take part in creating a sense of home. One mother, overcome with emotion, thanked us through tears for giving her children a safe and comfortable place to sleep. Encounters like these revealed to me that these are hardworking families who simply need support to regain stability.
This experience also underscored the powerful role that college students can play in strengthening their communities. Whether or not there is a requirement to volunteer, dedicating even a few hours a month can provide families with stability and children with the foundation they need to thrive.
Witnessing the joy of a child receiving a bed for the first time reminded me not only of how fortunate I am, but also of how rewarding it feels to give back. The impact of such service extends far beyond the hours logged—it has the potential to transform lives.”
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GRANT HORNE University of Mississippi
TEEN AND COLLEGE STUDENT VOLUNTEER DIGITAL GUIDE