Teenage Involvement

The more we increase the active participation and partnership with young people, the better we serve them. …And the more comprehensively we work with them as service partners, the more we increase our public value to the entire community. —Carmen Martinez

1. Volunteerism
2. HK Community Teen Networking Program

One of the biggest challenges in modern communities is how to provide young adults and teenagers with appropriate activities. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the percentage of high school seniors who have used illicit drugs has increased from 27.1 percent in 1992¹ to 47.4% in 2008². The percentage of 8th grade students who have used illicit drugs was 19.6% in 20083. Increasing instances of alcohol consumption and abuse, drug use, bullying and other destructive behavior are symptoms of a community that needs to increase its focus on the needs and desires of its young people.

Volunteerism

Through a database of community service opportunities maintained by the Fund, teenagers (7th through 12th grade) will find ways to connect and make a difference supporting events and organizations such as:

• Neighborhood events
• Music, arts and cultural festivals and events
• Community Holiday celebrations
• Recreation/sports programs
• Garden clubs
• Community clean-up efforts
• Community Alliances
• Local Theater and Arts programs
• Civic Organizations

HK Community Teen Networking Program

Local facilities will offer dances, movies, concerts, sporting event parties, open mic nights and more, often organized by the teens.

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