Students at East Los Angeles High are discovering how volunteering can open doors to valuable opportunities for personal growth and future success. By engaging in community service, they enhance their skills, build meaningful connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. This experience can be transformative, fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility. Additionally, such involvement significantly helps their college applications, showcasing their commitment to making a difference and their ability to balance academics with giving back to the community. I’m excited to share the perspectives and stories of both a student who has never volunteered and an experienced volunteer!
Now, I’d like to mention a female senior at Esteban E. Torres High School, discussing how she feels about not volunteering. Female senior student says, “Not volunteering has definitely made me reflect on missed opportunities for personal growth and helping others. It could have added a valuable dimension to my college applications, showing a commitment to community service and making a difference. If I could go back, I would definitely consider volunteering to explore my experiences and positively impact those around me.”. This student’s experience is not unique—many high school students in East LA share similar regrets about missing out on volunteer opportunities. Many students face challenges such as lack of time, awareness, or available programs, which can prevent them from getting involved in community service.
Student volunteer participation in East LA has increased by 15% over the past three years, highlighting the growing recognition of its importance. This rise in volunteerism has significantly benefited both students and the community, fostering a stronger sense of civic responsibility and personal development among teenagers. For students at Esteban E. Torres High School, these opportunities have been crucial in enhancing their college applications and building essential life skills.
“So volunteering has helped me in college applications because colleges look for students who are involved with their communities,” said Ariana Mendez, a college student from East LA. “It has helped me build up my communication skills as well as my teamwork skills. Volunteering also changed my perspective on career goals and leadership. I realized I have a passion for social work and community organizing, which I might not have discovered otherwise.” Teachers and parents in the community have also noticed the positive impact of increased volunteerism, emphasizing the importance of these opportunities for personal growth and academic success. Community members are advocating for more support and resources to sustain and expand volunteer programs, recognizing their role in fostering a sense of responsibility and connection among teenagers in East LA. Younger students can follow in Ariana’s footsteps by getting involved early and taking advantage of the numerous volunteer opportunities available to them.
The emphasis on student volunteerism in East LA has evolved significantly over the past decade. Initially, volunteer programs were sporadic and lacked formal support, making it challenging for students to find consistent opportunities. However, as the benefits of volunteerism became more evident, schools and community organizations began to prioritize and institutionalize these programs. This shift has not only increased student participation but also strengthened the community by fostering a culture of service and collaboration.
It’s time for students, teachers, and community members to step up and get involved in supporting volunteer programs in East LA. Your participation can make a huge difference, not just in the lives of the students but in the strength and unity of our entire community. By dedicating your time and resources, you can help create more opportunities for personal growth and academic success. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for East LA and get students to volunteer!
Supporting volunteer programs is crucial for the personal and academic development of students in East LA. By fostering a culture of service, we can empower our youth and strengthen our community. As Ariana Mendez shared, “Volunteering opened my eyes to new career paths and helped me develop skills I never knew I had.”. What kind of impact could you make if you started volunteering today? Let’s continue to invest in these opportunities to ensure a brighter future for everyone.