Youth are one of the most powerful demographics in our society. They are major consumers. They dictate current trends. And last year, they were one of the most demonstrative voices in the Presidential election. Youth are making a huge impact on everything they touch. That is just one reason their involvement in the community is so important.
Youth United is a youth engagement program run by United Way of Pierce County. Founded in 1994, the program has connected thousands of teens to their community. Youth volunteer days have put junior high and high school students on the front lines serving food, clearing trails and reading to younger children. Every summer, many teens come together to learn how to get things done around the issues they are passionate about. They are learning how to advocate for the things they want to change and making strides to do something about what’s important to them. They are leaders through Youth United’s Leadership Council, reaching out to three local communities (Tacoma, Puyallup and Bethel) and leading by their example.
But with their service also comes reward. In 2001, United Way of Pierce County launched the Varsity Letter in Community Service in conjunction with Youth United. To date, 766 students have received a varsity letter, just like those given to athletes and musicians, for their volunteerism. This unique program requires a minimum of 145 hours split between school-related and non school-related activities. What’s most remarkable about the recipients is that many of them blow that 145-hour minimum away.Local youth are making a significant difference in our community through Youth United. Young people are taking the opportunity to discover and develop skills, to apply their academic knowledge through service learning activities and to receive recognition for their volunteer efforts. Youth United is just one way for young people to help others, have fun and learn something new.
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