COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT FOR YOUTH GROUPS
Community Involvement for Youth Groups
Youth are often a ready and willing party when it comes to outreach and they typically enjoy getting to know their communities better. Outreach is a practical way to teach our young people about Christ’s love.
Here are some ideas for youth groups to participate in. If you would like help organizing a youth outreach activity please contact Leah Ruhland, our youth outreach coordinator.
“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets”
Matthew 7:12
Ideas for youth groups:
- Volunteering at a soup kitchen
- Collecting donations for a food bank
- Singing at a retirement home
- Harvesting food at a community garden
- Trash pickup at a local park
- Hosting a vacation Bible school
- Running a winter apparel drive (collecting coats, mits, and hats)
- Making care packs
- Collect children’s books for a local women’s shelter
- Hosting a free dinner
- Painting at non profit organizations
Why should youth be active in their communities?:
- It’s a practical way of fulfilling the Lord Jesus’ command: “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you” (Matthew 7:12).
- It helps them learn about how the world works
- It Builds Empathy
- Encourages responsibility
- Helps build their self esteem
Research shows that youth who are involved in their communities have more:
- Leadership skills
- Problem solving skills
- Decision making skills
- Resilience
- Purpose and belonging in their life
- Accountability and responsibility
Obstacles to youth involvement:
- Not knowing where to start
- Not believing youth can make a difference
- Lack of transportation
- Safety concerns
- Lack of interest
