Did you know that youth volunteers in Canada volunteer more than any other age group? 53% of Canadian youth are engaged in volunteering. However, this only means that we need to keep them engaged, increase the number of volunteers and the level of participation. Moreover, a study showed that people who volunteer at a younger age are more likely to support their communities by volunteering at an older age (Shannon, 2009).
Youth volunteers are an essential part of our communities. There are several ways nonprofit organizations can encourage and utilize their involvement. First, organizations need to create youth-specific innovative volunteering programs. It is essential to get youth excited about these opportunities and the importance of their sense of achievement. Additionally, reaching out to youth volunteers and keeping them in touch outside of volunteering is a good reminder of the cause. Sometimes, organizations need to reach youth where they spend most of their time; schools and parks.
Today, we celebrate one of our active youth volunteers, Rama Altaleb. Rama has participated in different programs, is always eager to help and expand her knowledge and is always committed.
Volunteering with CVIMS has helped me understand our community better and why such nonprofit organizations are essential. – Rama Altaleb
Rama has participated in a youth camp for younger kids. She helped organize the two-week camp and came up with brilliant ideas. Her participation and dedication made a big difference to everyone who worked with her.
Working with younger kids at the youth camp gave me a sense of accomplishment and a great feeling that my help is needed and that I can make a difference.
Here is what Hosam and Iryna, our Youth Camps Coordinators, had to say about her:
Rama is dedicated, committed, and respectful. It’s always a pleasure having Rama among the team, and grateful for her participation and support during youth activities and camps.
Rama is ambitious, hard-working, and has big dreams. We thank her and wish her all the success in her future endeavours, and we hope to continue working with her.
