Nonprofit organizations for high school students to join?

I'd really like to get involved in volunteering and making a difference in my community, but I'm not exactly sure where to start. Are there any well-known nonprofit organizations for high school students that I could look into joining?

There are several well-known nonprofit organizations that high school students can join to make a positive impact in their community and gain valuable volunteer experience. Some of these organizations include:

1. Key Club: This is an international student-led organization that focuses on community service and leadership development. Members engage in local volunteer projects and participate in club meetings where they can develop leadership skills.

2. National Honor Society (NHS): NHS is a prestigious organization that recognizes and fosters students' academic achievements, leadership skills, and service to the community. Members typically participate in various community service activities and projects throughout the year.

3. Habitat for Humanity: This organization aims to eliminate substandard housing by constructing affordable homes for families in need. Students can volunteer on construction sites, assist in fundraising activities, or even start a campus chapter at their school.

4. American Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers various volunteer opportunities for high school students, including disaster relief, blood drives, and first aid/CPR certification programs. Students can participate in local events or join a Red Cross club at their school.

5. Best Buddies: This nonprofit organization is dedicated to creating one-to-one friendships, providing integrated employment, and developing leadership skills for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a Best Buddies volunteer, you can be paired with a buddy to form a meaningful friendship and participate in fun, inclusive activities.

6. Special Olympics: By volunteering with the Special Olympics, high school students have the opportunity to work with athletes with intellectual disabilities in various sports activities, fundraising events, and competitions.

These are just a few examples of nonprofit organizations that high school students can join to engage in volunteer work and make a positive impact in their community. You might also consider looking for local volunteer opportunities at nearby nonprofit organizations, such as food banks, animal shelters, or senior centers. Or, check out the more extensive list on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/best-places-for-high-schoolers-to-do-community-service.

Another option is to start your own community service project, focusing on a cause you feel passionate about. Remember, quality is more important than quantity when it comes to volunteering—focus on getting deeply involved in a few organizations, rather than spreading yourself thin across many different activities. Good luck finding one that's right for you!