Unique volunteer programs

One thing colleges love? Volunteering - especially volunteering that aligns with the interests you already hope to pursue in college. Unfortunately, volunteering can be tricky. There are age requirements, lengthy applications and big time commitments that stand in the way of many teenagers giving back to the community. This article lays out places teens can volunteer that pertain to a specific career or major. As a bonus, these options help a lot of people! Santa Monica Pier Aquarium - Marine BiologyIf you have an interest in marine biology and/or ocean conservation, volunteering at the aquarium is the program for you. Know that the requirements and application process are detailed. Luckily, training is provided so no previous experience is necessary. Volunteers must be 15, and complete an application by Feb. 4. With the application comes an interview, and the spots are very competitive. If you make it into the program, congratulations! Make sure that you only miss one training night and that you are able to commit to 100 hours of volunteering a year.  St. John’s Hospital - MedicineHospitals are always a great place to volunteer for a variety of careers. Working in a hospital involved interacting with and helping new and interesting people everyday, a skill that applies to jobs everywhere. Volunteers at St. John’s must be 16 years old, and new volunteers are very welcome. There are a variety of areas volunteers can work in, including but not limited too; reception areas, transport team, office support, gift shop, nursing units and surgery waiting rooms. New volunteers join every month, so you don’t have to wait to fill out an application! Kaiser Permanente and Cedars Sinai also offer similar medical volunteer opportunities for those who live in West LA or Beverly Hills.  826LA- Teaching, Writing, BilingualityThe focus at 826LA is on teaching kids fundamental writing skills through things like tutoring, assistance in workshops and help for English language learners. This covers a diverse amount of majors/careers including education, writing and english. Volunteers at 826LA must be 16 years old and must complete a background check that costs $20 and can be done at orientation. Additionally, volunteers don’t have an application process to go through. To start volunteering, simply go to their website and sign up for a volunteer orientation where all questions will be answered.  Morgan-Wixson Theatre- Acting, Directing, ArtVolunteering at the Morgan-Wixson doesn’t mean you have to be in the show. They need help with everything from set design to lights to sound to costume assistance. Volunteers who aren’t acting in the show must be 16 and have to fill out a very quick application form on their website. This is a great way to give back to the community and also display interest in the performing arts on your college applications. The timing is very flexible and signing up is simple as the Morgan-Wixson is a non profit theatre and they are always looking for help.