At BASIS Charter Schools, we believe learning extends beyond academics. By connecting our students with volunteer opportunities, we help them become well-rounded, empathetic individuals who are active members of their communities.
Whether it’s organizing donation drives or participating in environmental clean-up efforts, our students take pride in giving back. These experiences teach students valuable life skills while fostering a strong sense of community.
Let’s take a closer look at how BASIS Charter School students are making an impact!
Why is volunteering important for students?
Volunteering is a great way for students to practice teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, it gives students a better understanding of how their actions affect others. Students often come away from volunteering events feeling more connected to the world around them.
Older students in particular can benefit greatly from volunteer experiences. Volunteering allows high school students to gain hands-on experience in professional settings, building skills that are crucial for the workplace.
“Through volunteering, high school students are able to explore potential career fields,” says Julia Cottle, Lead College Guidance Coordinator for the BASIS Charter Schools network. “For example, students interested in health professions can gain valuable experience by volunteering at local hospitals through a youth volunteer program.”
Volunteer experience also helps students stand out to colleges and employers. “Colleges and universities will review students’ volunteer efforts to better understand their values and interests,” says Cottle. “The dedication and perseverance that volunteering requires can be very impressive to admissions teams.”
Volunteer opportunities for BASIS students
BASIS students are deeply engaged in volunteerism and serving their communities. Most of our campuses have student organizations dedicated to community service, such as the National Honor Society or American Red Cross Club. These organizations require students to dedicate a certain number of hours each year towards volunteer efforts.
There are many ways students can fulfill their volunteer hour requirements for service-oriented clubs. Some examples include creating care packages for families in need, volunteering at food banks, tutoring young children, or organizing a blood drive.
Our students consistently blow us away with their ingenuity and dedication. Here are some notable volunteer initiatives taken on by BASIS students:
- Kenyan Library Book Drive: Students from BASIS Peoria’s UNICEF Club organized an ambitious book drive benefiting children in Kenya. The UNICEF Club collected almost 4,000 books over the course of two months.
- Navajo and Hopi Community Supply Drives: Students and teachers from BASIS Flagstaff came together to provide support to Native American communities in Northern Arizona. Students helped collect and distribute firewood, winter clothes, school supplies, and more.
- San Antonio Math Include (SaMi): SaMi is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit started by a Class of 2023 BASIS San Antonio Shavano graduate. SaMi provides free math and science classes and summer camp programs for students in grades K–12. Students who are skilled in math can volunteer with the organization to provide tutoring services.
Tips for finding student volunteer opportunities
Ms. Cottle encourages students to take advantage of resources available at their school when searching for volunteer opportunities. “At BASIS, our College Guidance Coordinators maintain lists of internships and community service opportunities available in the local area. We are always happy to help students find volunteer opportunities that align with their interests!”
Ms. Cottle also recommends that students search local government websites for opportunities ranging from animal care to teen library volunteer programs to historic preservation. “Many volunteer initiatives are tied to local government,” she says.
If a student is struggling to find volunteer opportunities near them, they can always ask their school leaders about opportunities to volunteer on campus. “You never know when your school might need volunteers for an upcoming event,” says Cottle.
BASIS Charter Schools is proud to provide meaningful opportunities that help students grow, lead, and create lasting change. If you want your child to be part of a school that fosters both academic success and a strong commitment to service, we invite you to find your nearest BASIS Charter School and take a tour. Our network comprises 40 campuses across Arizona, Louisiana, Texas, and Washington, D.C. Together, we can inspire the next generation of changemakers!
