Teenagers learn skills, earn money toward college through volunteering

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. A.C. Eggman
  • 35th Fighter Wing public affairs
Misawa's teenagers can take advantage of a local program that will add to their job experience and earn money toward scholarships. Misawa's teenagers can volunteer 10 to 20 hours a week while learning a skill this summer through the VolunTeen program June 25 through August 10 here.

This Department of Defense-sponsored program is in its fifth year at Misawa. Volunteers must be between 13 and 18 years old. However, once a senior has completed high school they are no longer eligible for the program, said Sharon Mosby, Airman and Family Readiness center community readiness consultant. .

Currently, there are 40 positions open across the base. Some organizations that have asked for assistance include Pets Are Worth Saving; the University of Maryland; the dental clinic, the hospital; Grissom Dining Facility; public affairs office; the Airman and Family Readiness Center; the library; the fitness center; and the family child care center. 

Some of the jobs include administrative assistance, learning photography, writing and webpage, scanning, customer service, answering telephones, filing records, feeding and caring for animals, said Mrs. Mosby.

"Volunteering and getting experience looks good on a resume and a college application," she said.

One teenager said she is undecided about her college major and thinks the program will help her narrow the decision.

"I volunteer a lot," said 17-year-old Rowann Henson, who is joining the program for the first time. "I like to experience different things. For me being a senior, I need this for college and it satisfies my own personal desires."

Anyone who missed the deadline to sign up, can still volunteer for the program.
"There may be still opportunities available," said Mrs. Mosby.

Organizations can still request a teenage volunteer on a case-by-case basis. Teenagers can pick up applications at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. For more information, call 226-4735.