Volunteering is an important part of my life.

I encourage everyone to volunteer because not only does it look good on a resume, but you also get gratification from helping others.

People should want to give back, even if they do not have much to give. You do not have to be rich to give back, and it does not just mean buying things and donating money. You can donate old toys, volunteer at a local food pantry, or simply give someone a few minutes of your time.

You can find volunteer work by researching it online or going directly to the location and asking if you can volunteer.

High school students can give back by joining a club at their school, like Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA,) Leadership or MAD HOPE. I am in FCCLA and we went to another high school to help package food for the children in Africa. There are a decent amount of clubs that are centered around service that students can join.

Volunteering aids in building relationships and can bring the community together.

I am a busy person; however, I always find time to volunteer. Whether it be staying after to help with decorations for a dance, ushering for a play, or even helping clean a closet.

A requirement for Leadership class is that students have to work ten service hours per semester. I always aim to have more than what is expected.

Before I was in Leadership I volunteered at my local library. It was challenging with my busy schedule, but I always found time to do it. I feel that it should be a priority for everyone to give back in some way.

I volunteer because I know that if I ever need help, I would want others to help me. I make many new friends through volunteer work, and it helps me with having connections in the future.

Volunteering fills me with a sense of pride and joy. Most teens my age are out partying on the weekends, while I am at the high school helping others.

I do not regret all the hours that I have spent volunteering because I like helping others. I feel bad when I have to tell someone no, or when I cannot make time to help them. If I have the free time, I will not say no to someone who needs help.

I feel that everyone should be that way.