The Volunteer Center of Erie County                                                                                      Youth Involvement Program

What is the Youth Involvement Program?

The Youth Involvement Program is designed to build self-esteem and a sense of community in students through actual volunteer projects done during the school day.  Students use their skills to provide for the needy, learn about their community, and meet those dedicated to serving our community in an environment where they cannot fail.  They recognize the value and power in their own lives and realize their actions make a difference.


Who Can Participate?

The Youth Involvement Program is designed for public or private school organizations in Erie County, Ohio such as classrooms, clubs, or sports teams.  Teachers or students should contact us with any questions.


What Is The Cost?

There is no cost to participate in the Youth Involvement Program.  All supplies/costs are incurred by The Volunteer Center at no expense to teachers or students.


How Much Time Does This Take?

Projects are completed during school hours and can be done whenever it is convenient for the teacher and their students.   One class at a time is ideal, but two classrooms may be scheduled together if needed.  All completed projects are donated to local Erie County agencies that serve the community.


What Types Of Activities Are Available?

• Make greeting cards
• Organize a 'drive' - collect food, socks, clothing, school supplies, or personal care items
• Make pine cone bird feeders
• Put together seasonal decorations
• Make and/or wrap bingo prizes
• Decorate placemats or quilt squares
• Assemble "pet care bags" for the Humane Society
• Make dog biscuits and/or cat toys for animals at the Humane Society
• Do a litter hike in your neighborhood or around your school
• Have a car wash or walk-a-thon & donate proceeds to a charity of your choice.

• Play bingo with residents of a nursing home
• Do a craft activity with residents of a nursing home
• Tour the Humane Society while delivering "pet care bags" made during class time
• Deliver food to Victory Kitchen after having a food drive
• Take a tour of Care & Share while donating clothing
• Visit Back to the Wild to donate pine cone bird feeders made during class time
   

What Is A "Service Connections Tour"?

A Service Connections Tour is an informative, educational tour of Erie County agencies that not only teaches students the needs of the community, but introduces them to the solutions the community provides for those needs.  This tour is offered to students from 4th grade up to 12th grade and can be for a half day or full day including lunch.


Which Erie County Agencies Are Served Through the Youth Program?

• Care & Share of Erie County
• Erie County Care Facility
• Goodwill Industries
• Victory Kitchen
• Stein Hospice
• Safe Harbour Domestic Violence Shelter
• VOA/Crossroads Homeless Shelter
• Erie County Senior Center/Meals on Wheels
• Portland House
• Lutheran Memorial Home
   

This Sounds Great!  How Do I Get Started?

Call Youth Director, at (419)627-0074 to schedule a classroom project or field trip as soon as possible.

 

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