7 Proven Strategies to Engage Youth in Volunteering

Are you struggling to connect with young people for your nonprofit’s initiatives? You’re not alone. Youth engagement can seem challenging, but with the right strategies, you can transform them into passionate advocates for your cause. In this interactive guide, we’ll explore practical questions, actionable steps, and reflect together on what works best to boost youth engagement in volunteering. 

Step 1: Understand What Motivates Young Volunteers 

Poll Yourself:Which of these resonates most with the youth you’re trying to engage? 

1. Making a difference in their community. 

2. Gaining skills for future careers. 

3. Meeting new people and having fun. 

Each of these answers provides insight into tailoring your approach. If “making a difference” tops the list, frame your efforts as community-impact-driven. If it’s about “gaining skills,” emphasize professional development opportunities. 

Action Step: Create a quick survey for your young audience to find out what drives them. Use tools like Google Forms or Instagram polls for instant feedback. 

Step 2: Make It Fun and Competitive! 

Question: What would make mundane tasks like sorting donations more exciting?  

Answer: Gamification! 

Introduce competitions or challenges like: 

• A volunteer leaderboard tracking hours and achievements. 

• Team-based tasks where small groups compete for prizes. 

• Fun badges for milestones, like "Social Media Guru" or "Community Hero." 

Try This: Brainstorm with your team: What exciting leaderboard categories could we create ? 

Step 3: Use Their Language (And Use Their Platforms) 

Interactive Reflection:  

Where do your youth audience spend most of their online time? Is it TikTok, Discord, or Instagram? Conduct a quick poll to find out. 

Action Step: Experiment by creating a short TikTok challenge tied to your cause. For example, if you’re a food bank, try: “Share a meal and tag us for a chance to feed 5 families for every post!” 

Idea for Engagement:  

Host a live Q&A session on Instagram or Discord to answer questions about your nonprofit and showcase volunteering stories. 

Step 4: Break It into Bite-Sized Tasks 

 Quick Scenario: Imagine a student with only 30 minutes to spare. What could they do? 

Suggestions: 

• Share a post about your cause. 

• Write thank-you notes to donors. 

• Sign a petition or send emails to policymakers. 

Challenge Them:  

Ask your volunteers: What’s the most impactful task you can do in under 15 minutes? Post their answers on your social media channels to inspire others! 

Step 5: Share Real, Authentic Stories 

Think About This: Would you be more inspired to volunteer by seeing a polished infographic or by hearing from someone your age who’s made an impact? 

Interactive Content Idea: Host a “Volunteer Diaries” series featuring short clips or testimonials from young people already involved in your programs. 

Reflection Prompt: Ask your audience: What would “your” volunteer story say? 

Step 6: Offer Skills That Matter  

Quiz Time: Which of these skills could you teach through volunteering? 

• Leadership 

• Event planning 

• Social media marketing 

• Public speaking 

Your Turn:  

Ask volunteers: What skill do you want to gain? Then, customize roles around their interests. 

Step 7: Recognize and Reward 

Interactive Idea: Run a weekly “Volunteer Spotlight” on social media. Ask your community: Who deserves a shoutout this week? Tag them below!” 

Try This Now: Think of a small reward you can offer today—whether it’s a virtual certificate, a handwritten note, or public acknowledgment-to make the volunteer feel valued. 

Final Thoughts 

Engaging youth in volunteering is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It requires listening, innovating, and collaborating. Use these interactive strategies to turn interest into action and watch as young volunteers bring fresh energy to your cause. 

What’s your next step? Drop us a comment or DM with your favorite tip from this blog or share your own! Together, let’s inspire the leaders of tomorrow. 

Looking for more tailored strategies? Contact the CLASS Consulting Group.   

CLASS has been a trusted advisor to board and leadership teams of nonprofits since 2002. Learn more and reach out today.