Teens getting involved to LIVE UNITED

by Jill Hilton, Marketing Intern

Youth United is a program of United Way of Pierce County.  This program is offered to High School students in the Pierce County area. The primary goal of Youth United is connect teens with volunteering opportunities. Youth can get information about upcoming events, guidelines about the lettering program, information on the leadership council and other activities Youth United sponsors on the Youth United Website. Students get involved from all over the local area from Puyallup to Graham to the greater Tacoma area.

Tara Adams and Sonia Xu are both seniors at Puyallup High School. Both girls are fantastic; they are best friends and the greatest support system on their volunteering conquest. These two young girls are inspirational, not only are they dedicated students but are also involved deeply in giving back to our community.  Between being Class President, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) President, volunteering at Good Sam’s and Youth United, these girls have a ton on their plate. I was interested in why they became so involved?  How they heard about the program with Youth United?

The girls said it is a good way to use their time. The experience is humbling, working with people who need their help makes them grateful for the things they have and where they come from.  During their freshman year of high school someone from United Way of Pierce County came into their after school club and told them about opportunities to volunteer with Youth United. The girls decided to get involved and have enjoyed it ever since. The girls have had fun getting involved and have encouraged their friends to join in with them to LIVE UNITED.  

One of the opportunities available to students in the Pierce County area is the Varsity Lettering program in community service. Students receive a Varsity Letter which is the same as that of a sports letter for their school. The students must complete a minimum of 145 hours in community service to qualify. Students have a set of rules that are followed in order to obtain the letter. Tara and Sonia have received a Letter each year they have participated. It is a great way to get involved and LIVE UNITED.

For more information on the Varsity Letter and events or activities that Youth United are involved in visit: http://www.uwpc.org/YouthUnited.htm.  Also LIKE us on Facebook!