Below are a list of questions which can help your organization develop meaningful service-learning opportunities for youth.
Article:
Building Community Through Service-Learning: The Role of the Community Partner,
By Susan A. Abravanel
Developed by the Points of Light Foundation, www.pointsoflight.org
Here is a checklist of some things to look for in your agency when you are inviting young people to bepart of your work. The more "yeses" you have, the more accessible your agency is. (If you do not know how to answer some of the questions, ask some children and teenagers to help.)
Yes No
Do agency staff say more positive than negative things about children
and teenagers?
Yes No
Does your agency have policies that allow people of all ages to volunteer?
Yes No
Are young people an active part of decision-making processes that effect them and the work they will do?
Yes No
Is comfortable furniture available for children (small chairs, tables, etc.)?
Yes No
Are water fountains, rest rooms, and other facilities accessible for children?
Yes No
Are refreshments other than coffee (such as water, juice, snacks, etc.) available for volunteers?
Yes No
If your facility includes vending machines, do they include appropriate snacks for children?
Yes No
Are training and orientation materials about your agency written in a language and style that children and teenagers can understand and would enjoy?
Yes No
Are meetings held at times when youth can participate (not late at night, for example)?
Yes No
Is your orientation and training geared to the developmental level of the children or teenagers who will be serving?
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