Several community agencies are partnering to develop an innovative, pilot project where students can receive a varsity letter for volunteerism at Sedro-Woolley High School . To start-up the project, United General Hospital 's Community Health Outreach Programs received a Venture Grant from the United Way of Skagit County as well as recruited additional agencies that have committed staff time towards the development, implementation and evaluation of the Youth United: Varsity in Volunteerism Project.
The goal of the Youth United project is to recognize and reward students for their volunteer efforts in the community as well as provide workforce skills development trainings. Studies show youth participation in and recognition for community pro-social activities can decrease the likelihood of teen substance abuse, delinquency, violence and school dropout. The project aims to provide youth with community service or volunteer project opportunities. To receive a varsity letter, students will have to complete a minimum of 100 hours of service in their schools and at community agencies. To ensure the needs of youth and volunteer agencies are met, trainings will be provided to the youth about the fundamentals of volunteering.
An essential component of this project is the involvement of businesses and organizations to provide a broad range of service projects and volunteer opportunities for high school youth.
Interested in providing volunteer opportunities for youth or would like to receive training on utilizing youth volunteers, please join us:
Date: February 2, 2012 (Thursday) from 11:00 -1:00
Costs: Free and Lunch is provided
Where: Sedro-Woolley School District Support Services Building
Workshop Outcomes:
· Tools on how to ensure a successful experience when utilizing youth volunteers
· Outline youth volunteer roles and expectations with the Varsity Letter in Volunteerism Project
**If you are unable to attend the workshop and would still like to host a volunteer, please contact Lisa Mitchell 360.856.7388.
Thank you for your consideration in providing a volunteer opportunity for the youth in our community!