A great way to foster and encourage young women is to volunteer with local youth groups. I was lucky enough to be able to work with youth through Scouting but there are many other organizations; youth groups; churches, schools, etc.; available. Youth gain skills in these programs by learning to work as a team which helps them develop communication, inter-personal and leadership skills. In addition to leadership and teamwork skills they often provide opportunities that include introductions to career paths that support lifelong learning.
Volunteering with youth groups doesn’t require a recurring, scheduled commitment. Guest speakers and badge/program counselors are also needed. I’ve had the chance to visit a high school Career & Technical Education network system class where I talked about my current career as well as the path I took to get where I am today. We had a robust discussion about job opportunities directly related to the course as well as how skills in this class can help in other careers.
When I worked with youth in Scouting I volunteered as a Digital Technology, Business, Personal Management, Programming and even Citizenship badge counselor. In addition to teaching about the specific program I also helped to encourage their interpersonal and leadership skills. It was personally fulfilling for me to help them learn more about the world around them and how to work well with others. I believe that demonstrating strong leadership, interpersonal and technical skills while working with youth can help them to be successful.
To find locations in your area to volunteer and mentor youth, check with local school districts, Boys and Girls Clubs (https://www.bgcppr.org), scouting organizations and churches. Volunteer Match (https://www.volunteermatch.org/) can also help locate opportunities in your area. Check with your co-workers that have kids for ideas as well.
If you want to find more information about the benefits of mentoring, check out the Mentoring Website (https://www.mentoring.org). Notre Dame’s Youth Program’s Director recently posted a great article about the impact it’s had in their community as well: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/scaling-community-impact-youth-program-directors-role-johnson-m-ed--8llxc/?trackingId=tbokPJkURly9fY7%2BX%2Fx4Gg%3D%3D
One final thought to leave you with, if each of us only took 1-2 hours a year to volunteer with young women, we can make a tremendous impact on their future.
#AccelerateAction #MentorshipMatters #YouthEmpowerment
