Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network has joined the Summer of Service National Affiliate Network, a national campaign sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service to engage more youth in service projects during the summer months. The Foundation, along with dozens of other youth-serving organizations that are committed to improving communities, has agreed to promote the campaign throughout our networks from June 15 to August 31.

Without exposure to constructive activities, summer can be a difficult time for young people. The Summer of Service initiative recognizes the potential of all youth to contribute in meaningful ways to the communities in which they live through volunteer service. According to recent research, youth who are involved in their communities through service do better in school, engage in fewer risky behaviors, have a better sense of themselves, and feel more empowered to make a difference in their own lives than do youth who do not participate in volunteer activities.

To help stimulate ideas and provide tips on how to set up high-quality service projects, the Corporation has developed, in collaboration with Youth Service America, a Summer of Service Toolkit. To view the toolkit, click here.

As part of the Summer of Service Campaign the Corporation is also sponsoring the High Five Service Project Kudos Award which will give participating organizations an opportunity to nominate one or more of their outstanding service projects. Five projects will be selected nationally and representatives will be recognized at an all-expense paid celebration in Washington, D.C. in October. Learn more about Summer of Service or to register your project (after June 15).