Volunteering Helps Students Build Connections to Their Community

Students worked a fundraising night at Culver’s as a way to raise money for DanceBlue. Many opportunities to get involved in the community service exist for high school students at GCHS.

Volunteering takes many forms, but its core purpose remains the same: bringing people together to improve the world. Within our community, student involvement in volunteer work doesn’t just fill a need; it builds character, inspires leadership, and sets the foundation for a lifetime of compassion and service. When students step up to serve, they do more than lend a hand–they set the standard for a brighter future. Volunteering empowers young people to become change-makers, rooted in empathy and driven by the desire to uplift others.

Maddie Vickers’ Demonstrates Commitment to Community

Maddie Vickers, a senior at Great Crossing High School, embodies what it means to be a passionate volunteer. Her commitment to service goes far beyond obligation; it’s become vital to her identity. “Volunteering makes a difference in our community,” Vickers shared. “My favorite way to volunteer is cleaning up our local reserves, parks, and lakes. These small acts can make a large difference in our community.” Vickers began volunteering when she was trying to build her resume to help construct her college application in the future. She started by doing tasks like park clean-ups,  food and clothing drives.

Vicker’s approach reminds us that every action has a ripple effect, no matter how small. She understands that real change begins one step at a time, and she finds joy in every opportunity to care for our planet. “When I volunteer, I feel myself improving rapidly. That’s another reason I love volunteering, I get to work on myself and help others along the way.” Her words are a testament to how giving back doesn’t just serve others; it transforms the volunteer from within. Vickers is proof that with the right mindset, young people can achieve anything.

Aubryn Lyons’ Has a Mission to Mentor

Sophomore Aubryn Lyons’ heart for service shines especially bright when she’s working with children. Volunteering outside of school, Lyons spends time mentoring kids ages 5 to 12, and she helps them learn, grow, and believe in themselves through the Georgetown-Scott County Parks & Recreation Department, which offers a structured volunteer program with roles suitable for every age group. She started by volunteering at the Georgetown Pavilion–teaching kids how to swim and often supervising kids when guardians came to the pavilion to do their recreational activities, and needed a caretaker. Lyons brings a unique perspective—having once been in those children’s shoes, she now gives of her freely. “I enjoy working with kids because I remember what it felt like to have a mentor to look up to when I was in elementary school,” she reflected. “I remember looking up to all the older kids at my school, not knowing what my future would be like—now I stand in their shoes, looking down at those kids who used to be just like me. That’s what inspires me to volunteer.”

Lyon’s journey from being inspired to becoming the inspiration is powerful, and she hopes others will follow in her footsteps. She stated, “If I could give any advice to incoming high school students, it would be to volunteer early, join clubs or sports, and make yourself a better person by helping others who need it most. Be the shining light in others’ lives.”

Commit to Making a Difference

Students like Vickers and Lyons are living proof that the youth of today can lead with heart, purpose, and integrity. They remind students that volunteering is more than a resume booster—it’s a lifestyle, a mindset, and a path to becoming the best version of yourself. In a world that often feels divided, their stories show us how compassion and service can unite us.

If teens want to help improve their city, nation, and their global community, we need more young leaders who are willing to rise and serve.  At Great Crossing High School, students can volunteer through clubs like NHS, Beta, Key Club, and FFA. NHS members support local nonprofits like The Gathering Place, while Beta Club focuses on service projects like school events and charity drives. Key Club organizes food and clothing drives and partners with Kiwanis for community service. FFA offers opportunities in agricultural fairs, gardening, and sustainability efforts. Each club helps students develop leadership skills while giving back to their community. So take the first step—volunteer!