Many high school students are required to track community service hours for a variety of reasons. The requirement to apply for the National Honor Society (NHS), apply for certain scholarships, and so much more, offers students a way to give back to a community that supports them.
With so many people all facing the same requirement, it can feel like a scramble to find an opportunity. In reality, the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District and the surrounding area are rich with local organizations.
1. ABC (A Better Chance) Strath Haven
Recently celebrating its 50th anniversary, the program has become vital to the fabric of the local community. According to their website, their mission is to “increase substantially the number of well-educated young people of color who are capable of assuming positions of responsibility and leadership in American society.” The organization offers high school students the chance to participate in special projects and initiatives, event planning, or tutoring/peer mentoring.
2. School-Based Service Initiatives
Strath Haven boasts an impressive number of clubs available for students to join. Many of these clubs actually organize volunteer initiatives within the community. Just a few examples include Interact Club’s frequent trips to the Access Center located in Chester, Cat Rescue Club, which aims to provide animals with foster homes and fundraise, and Junior District Firefighters, which supports education and community outreach. Check out the Clubs and Activities page to see what else Strath Haven has to offer!
3. Strath Haven Home and School Association
The HSA offers students the chance to help with event set-up, community outreach, and other schoolwide initiatives. They regularly seek volunteers and are a great fit for any students looking to track some hours, while staying up to date with the happenings of our school community.
4. Players Club of Swarthmore (PCS)
PCS welcomes students interested in all things theater, tech, set construction, or backstage work. They offer a very hands-on experience that plays a key role in making productions happen. Any student who is creative and enjoys the arts should consider this option.
5. Local food banks and shelters
Students looking to support members of the community who may be suffering from food insecurity, homelessness, or other difficulties should consider volunteering at one of the many food banks or shelters. Some of these food-based organizations include Lifewerks Food Pantry in Wallingford, the Media Food Bank, and Chester Eastside. A couple of housing-based options include Wesley House and Family Management Center. Students will be involved with things like sorting donations, meal distribution, and making packages of necessities during volunteer shifts.
6. Town events in Swarthmore, Media, etc.
Strath Haven’s surrounding area is rich with activities and events run by community organizations. Swarthmore Town Center, for example, is always looking for volunteers to help run events like Truckathon, Farmers Markets, and so much more. Similarly, organizations in Media often need volunteers for events like Dining Under the Stars, parades, races, and more.
7. Wallingford Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Students can make an impact on the older generation of the community by volunteering at the Wallingford Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, located just minutes from the school. Youth volunteers are welcome to participate in a variety of activities like bingo games, arts and crafts, reading aloud to residents, and so much more. This is a meaningful way to brighten up residents’ days.
