Clothing donations is one of many community service project ideas.
Community service projects are not only a great way to give back, but they also build character. Of course, a noted fringe benefit for high schoolers is that it looks good on a college application. Colleges like to see that a student is active in the community. The projects you choose don't have to be ambitious -- simple endeavors can make a positive change.
Food Drive
The donation of non-perishable canned goods is a common service project, but try introducing a little friendly competition. Make prizes available for the classes that donate the most food. Have a grand, first and second prize for the top three. The drive can last for about four weeks, and October is a good time, given that it's National Hunger Awareness Month. The students can drop off the food items to their class sponsor, who will keep a tally on the donations.
Car Wash Fundraiser
There are many creative projects to choose from, but sometimes a simple fundraiser does just fine. For example, a car wash is a tried and true way that can usually net around $300 or so. Gather up the volunteers and set a date, either a Saturday or Sunday. Select a location -- talk with business managers whose store parking lots are in high traffic areas to increase your proceeds. Ask the managers or owners if they would consider donating the space. Have volunteers make signs and collect all of the car washing supplies necessary. You may have to do a supplemental run to the store to ensure that you have enough supplies such as rags, soap and sponges.
Trash Clean Up
Tidying up and beautifying an area of town is similar to the Adopt a Highway program, but less formal. Select a littered area of town, and take to the area with trash bags and plenty of gloves. Put a sign up sheet on display for volunteers who are interested. Schedule the date and notify municipal leaders of your efforts. Get parental permission and take the envoy to the area and plan to clean for at least three to six hours.
Nursing Home
Residents of nursing homes can be lonely and isolated. For this reason, the presence of young people is almost always welcome and appreciated. Schedule a trip to a nursing home -- and encourage those involved to see it as more than a cordial community service visit. Challenge students to make friends among the residents and to maintain correspondence and return visits. During the visits, consider skits, music performances and gaming activities -- these will enrich the visits and make them more memorable for all involved.
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