We’ve changed our name from Encore.org to CoGenerate! Join us at cogenerate.org to bridge generational divides and co-create the future.

We’ve changed our name from Encore.org to CoGenerate! Join us at cogenerate.org to bridge generational divides and co-create the future.

Looking for ways to support young people that don’t pose transportation or scheduling hassles? We’ve got you covered. Here are 10 ways to volunteer virtually while using your experience and wisdom to help kids thrive.

1. Help aspiring college students through the entire college admissions and financial aid application process. To become a Strive for College volunteer, you simply need to create a profile on Strive’s site, complete a background check ($40) and do a one-hour training before being connected with students interested in your support. Over 90 percent of students with Strive mentors go to a four-year institution, many being the first in their family to attend college, usually with little or no debt. Read Karen’s story.

2. Become an online volunteer for the United Nations and use your skills for global good. They have a great online portal that allows you to search for opportunities by area (research, teaching, writing, outreach and advocacy, etc.) and join the more than 12,000 online volunteers that support them each year. Search current opportunities and see if anything sparks your interest — many of the posts listed touch on issues impacting children and youth.

3. Provide support via text to young people in crisis by becoming a volunteer with Crisis Text Line. Volunteers commit to 200 total hours, serving a recommended 4 hours/week, and undergo a six-week, 34-hour training program to ensure they feel fully prepared to deal with issues such as self-harm, suicide, depression, bullying, and gender/sexual identity. If you’ve personally overcome mental health challenges in your own life, this virtual volunteer opportunity could be the perfect way to pass it on. Read Rainy’s story.

Read more at VolunteerMatch.

Published: June 8, 2018

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