All about volunteering as a teen in Austin, Texas

When you’re in High School, volunteering is a great way to:

• Give back to your community
• Develop new skills
• Meet like-minded peers
• Bolster your college applications

“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.” -Helen Dyer

Austin has plenty of volunteering opportunities – ready to match what you’re most interested in.

Whether you need service hours to graduate or just want to help out on causes you believe in, see below for a list of places in Austin, Texas that welcome teenage volunteers.

1. Environmental Conservation

Austin is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Organizations like the Austin Parks Foundation and Keep Austin Beautiful regularly seek volunteers for park clean-ups, tree planting events, and educational programs. These activities not only beautify the city but also promote a cleaner, greener environment for everyone to enjoy.

2. Animal Welfare

If you have a soft spot for animals, several shelters and rescue organizations in Austin welcome teen volunteers. Austin Pets Alive! and Austin Humane Society often need help with animal care, socialization, and adoption events. Volunteering here not only benefits the animals but also provides valuable experience for those considering careers in veterinary medicine or animal advocacy.

3. Education and Youth Programs

Many nonprofits in Austin focus on supporting education and youth development. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, and Austin Partners in Education offer mentoring programs, tutoring sessions, and after-school activities where teens can make a direct impact on younger students’ lives.

4. Social Services

For those interested in social justice and community service, organizations like the Central Texas Food Bank and Foundation for the Homeless provide opportunities to assist with food distribution, affordable housing initiatives, and support services for families in need. These experiences foster empathy and a deeper understanding of social issues facing Austin’s diverse population. You could also volunteer with the Austin Justice Coalition.

5. Arts and Culture

Austin’s local arts scene offers volunteering opportunities at museums, theaters, and cultural festivals throughout the year. The Contemporary Austin, Austin City Limits Music Festival and Zach Theatre are just a few places where teens can contribute by assisting with events, serving as an usher and being a part of our vibrant art and music scene. 

“Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”

― Dr Syed Muhammad Zeeshan Hussain Almashhadi

Getting Started

To get started with volunteering in Austin, consider these steps:

• Research: Explore different organizations and their missions to find a cause that resonates with you. Generation Serve also organizes Teen Service Days. 
• Contact: Reach out directly to the volunteer coordinator or visit their websites to learn about upcoming opportunities and requirements for teen volunteers.
• Commitment: Be prepared to commit to a schedule that works for you, balancing your volunteer work with school and other activities.
• Benefits: Remember that volunteering isn’t just about giving your time—it’s also about gaining valuable experience, building relationships, and making a meaningful difference in your community.

Volunteering as a high school student in Austin is a rewarding experience that can shape your future and strengthen your connection to the community.

Ready to get started? Explore the opportunities available in Austin and discover how you can make a difference as a teen volunteer.

Please contact me if you’d like to book a high school senior year photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more portrait sessions on my blog.