Service is a broad term that can mean many different things to different people or in different settings. While this allows more people to get involved in service and can be incredibly exciting, it can also become overwhelming. For that reason, we’re providing some guidance on how to develop an idea that you have for a future service project. (You can begin with either section, though you should go through both sections)
Developing your idea for a Cause/Organization:
Developing your idea for a Project:
Developing your idea for a Cause/Organization:
- Consider what about this cause is important to you and others your age?
- Is there a particular organization you’re thinking about serving? If so, visit their website or social media pages - try to learn more about their specific needs.
- If you don’t have an organization in mind, try thinking about what people who are affected by this problem might need?
- Is it something that can be donated to them?
- Is it time-related (where young people could volunteer their time to help)?
- Is it a different type of service?
Developing your idea for a Project:
- What time frame works best for your community? During a particular month? Week? Before, after or during the school day?
- How much time will you need to effectively prepare for your project?
- How much time do you need to collect items or volunteer?
- Consider projects that have gone well in the past. What types of drives collect the most? What projects inspire volunteers to stay involved?
- What about these projects worked well?
- What would you have changed?