In the United States, there are many non-profit organizations that offer support and opportunities for teens. By helping your teen connect with some of these institutions, you can ensure they build healthy relationships and develop positive skills. Here are five worth checking out.
DoSomething.org
Do you know a teen who wants to join a cause and make a difference? Even just looking for a good non-profit can be overwhelming. DoSomething.org is an excellent place to start! By signing up and choosing their interests, teens can get connected to a social cause, learn about it and find ways to pitch in. They’ll also be eligible for scholarships. From helping those less fortunate, working with animals or cleaning up the environment, there’s certainly a social cause for every youth.
StandUp For Kids
There are over 1.5 million homeless youth in America. StandUp for Kids seeks to improve this reality, provide support for these teens and ultimately end the cycle of youth homelessness in the U.S. The organization runs street outreach programs, drop in centers, alternative schools and high school mentoring. Visit their website for information on how you can volunteer or to see what services are available in your area.
Student Against Destructive Decisions
Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) is a leading organization committed to saving lives by empowering teens to stand strong against risks and pressures in their everyday lives. SADD focuses on youth leadership development, traffic safety, substance abuse as well as personal health and safety through annual conferences, local chapter events and educational programs.
YMCA
While it’s a global organization, the YMCA has an excellent local focus in communities across the United States. Through camps, child care, academic & leadership clubs, food programs and athletic initiatives, the YMCA works to invest in America’s teens. It helps them learn how to express themselves, come together for a common cause and become active and informed citizens. To get involved, find your local chapter.
Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide
The SPTS seeks to reduce the number of youth suicides and attempted suicides by encouraging public awareness through the development and promotion of educational training programs. It provides training programs for school administrations and educational resources for teens, parents and teachers. Most importantly, the SPTS offers support to teens living with depression or thinking about suicide via a prevention lifeline.
Feature Photo: Joshua Sortino
