Community Service Opportunities

Prosocial behavior covers a wide range of human actions — helping people in distress, donating time and energy to voluntary service organizations, attempting to reverse political, economic and social injustice or inequality. The common thread among prosocial behaviors is the desire or intent to promote the welfare of others.

When it comes to living a healthy lifestyle, promoting prosocial behavior is as important as preventing antisocial or health-compromising behaviors. Acts of compassion help develop social competencies, positive values, and a sense of purpose in life. Getting involved in a community service or volunteer project may actually reduce risky choices. By getting involved in community service and volunteer projects we develop a sense of investment in the community in which we live.

You do not necessarily have to join a group in order to volunteer your time. Here are some community service ideas you can enjoy by yourself or with friends:  volunteer to read to elderly patients at a nursing home, tutor a student, become a teen volunteer at a local hospital, call an animal shelter and volunteer to walk the dogs, help out at your local community recycling center, or pick up roadside litter.

For more information on community service/volunteer project opportunities for youth contact: