Inspire young minds through engaging ways to volunteer throughout Memphis.
Memphians of all ages are no strangers to giving back to their community. You’ve likely seen it yourself—young people organizing fundraising events, running donation drives, hosting car washes, or selling candy to support causes close to their hearts. Want to find even more ways to get involved or encourage your kids to join in the philanthropic spirit? Check out these volunteer opportunities in Memphis that empower kids to make a real difference in our community.
Do. Or Do Not. There’s No Try in Memphis Youth Volunteering
Greta Thunberg’s activism proves youth can change the world through volunteer opportunities in Memphis.
This year, Greta Thunberg reminded the world of youth’s power to effect change. As young Memphians volunteer, they follow in her footsteps, proving that one person’s dedication can shift perspectives. From environmental advocacy to community support, volunteer programs in Memphis empower kids to create local and global impact. If you’re a young Memphian, here are some ways to connect with causes that matter and discover your inner philanthropist!
Nurturing Young Changemakers: Volunteer Activities Your Kids Will Love
Engage young minds with community-oriented volunteer activities across Memphis.
Finding ways to connect young people with volunteer work in Memphis is key to meaningful engagement. Volunteer Odyssey and Choose901 offer ideal starting points, helping to match interests with community needs. These platforms connect users to various opportunities, such as:
- Animal Care: Memphis Animal Services and the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County welcome young animal lovers who can support shelter staff with daily care, adoption, and events.
- Community Assistance: At St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen and First Congregational Church’s “Food Justice” program, children can serve meals to those in need, instilling compassion and empathy for others.
- Food Programs: Through MIFA, and with a grown-up’s permission, kids of driving age can volunteer to deliver food to older adults, building bonds and understanding community needs.
- Tech Learning: Cloud901, a teen space in the Memphis Public Library, lets tech-savvy youth assist with classes, events, and programs for kids and adults alike.
These activities let children explore their interests and see how small acts of kindness can significantly impact their city. Engaging kids in volunteer work now can plant the seeds for lasting community involvement.
Youth Empowerment Through Volunteer Service
Help children see the value of community service and personal growth.
Volunteering offers more than good deeds; it builds character. Youth volunteering fosters respect, patience, leadership, and an understanding of good citizenship. Research shows that children who volunteer are more likely to do so as adults and even one hour per week can reduce negative behaviors.
Opportunities for youth to serve exist throughout the city:
- Humane Society of Memphis: Animal care and adoption support.
- Community Health: The YMCA of Memphis and the Veterans Affairs programs provide roles for youth to assist in civic engagement and wellness initiatives, helping foster leadership skills and empathy.
- Environmental Stewardship: At Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG), children and teens can support conservation and environmental education, learning about sustainability while assisting with garden upkeep and special events.
- Memphis Farmers Market: MFM has a variety of opportunities for kids (and adults) to help with set-up and tear-down, market check-in, and a variety of other market day activities. Not only do these opportunities lend a helping hand to Memphis’ local agricultural community, but they also provide young Memphians with a chance to learn where their food comes from!
- Memphis Public Library: Teens aged 16 and up can volunteer at one of the many Memphis Public Library branches! From supporting community-focused events and activities to helping out around the shelves, there are a varitey of unique opportunities
Encouraging youth involvement in Memphis’s vibrant community is the perfect way to foster lifelong service habits and reinforce positive behaviors.
Kid-Friendly Volunteer Programs in Memphis for Every Interest
Find the right volunteer opportunities for young Memphians through community resources.
Memphis offers a wealth of volunteer opportunities for kids eager to make a difference. Resources like Volunteer Odyssey and Choose901 list various ways children can get involved, from supporting animal shelters to assisting at food pantries. For families and kids looking to make a meaningful impact, these resources open the door to new experiences.
Programs include:
- Food Support: The Mid-South Food Bank welcomes volunteers to sort and distribute food for those in need.
- Community Assistance: Dorothy Day House allows families, including children, to help homeless families, keeping them together and secure.
- Animal Welfare: At Memphis Animal Services, kids can assist with pet care and adoption events, learning compassion for animals and people alike.
These opportunities help young people gain hands-on experience while making positive contributions to their city. From education to food security, Memphis has options for kids to get involved in causes that resonate with them.
Inspire Youth to Make a Difference Through Volunteering in Memphis
Help young people build life skills and community bonds through volunteering.
Volunteering in Memphis provides valuable life skills and character-building experiences for children and teens. Through organizations like Volunteer Odyssey, MIFA, and Choose901, families can find age-appropriate roles to spark kids’ interest in service and social change. These activities don’t just benefit the community—they also shape children into empathetic, engaged citizens.
Local programs that cater to youth interests include:
- Animal Welfare: With Memphis Animal Services, kids learn responsibility through roles in animal care and adoption assistance.
- Education and Heritage: The National Civil Rights Museum allows young volunteers to assist in welcoming visitors, helping them connect to Memphis’s rich history and their roles in a more inclusive future. Additionally, Sister Reach Youth Ambassadors (SYA) focuses on education and advocacy, empowering youth through mentorship programs.
- Community Health and Wellness: YMCA Memphis offers teen-centered civic engagement programs, empowering youth through workshops and volunteering in health, fitness, and education.
- Community Support: Friends for Life – 1st Monday Dinner Volunteers and Habitat for Humanity ReStore give kids hands-on experience with service, where they help organize meals or assist in community projects that promote housing stability.
By starting young, children develop leadership, problem-solving, and empathy, making a lasting impact on their communities. Encourage kids to explore volunteer work in Memphis and witness their growth into empowered, compassionate individuals.
