Shadow Ridge offers many clubs for students to thrive in a community and foster strong life-skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and time management. Clubs also offer volunteer opportunities to help students make a difference and build impressive resumes for college applications. For those looking for more volunteer hours, there are many opportunities available outside of school that fit a variety of interests and won’t conflict with schedules.

Senior Venice Nevine Velayo stated, “I enjoy volunteering and I would encourage others to do it too. Not just for college applications but also to help one another. We’re all part of the same community and we all have a part to play in making a difference.”

For students who enjoy being around animals, Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary is a nonprofit organization that offers volunteers chances to help care for exotic rescued animals. Tasks can include cleaning habitats, organizing supplies, and assisting with daily care. This type of volunteering is more hands-on and works well for those who prefer active environments. Animal-focused volunteering can also teach responsibility and patience while supporting local rescue efforts. To become a volunteer, teens 13-15 must be accompanied by an adult and all persons under the age of 18 must have a volunteer waiver signed by a parent/guardian. The dress code requires closed-toe shoes and outdoor equipment. 

Junior Janelle Fiamordzi said, “Stepping outside of your comfort zone makes it easier to volunteer because now you’re meeting new people and gaining new experiences.”

Students interested in helping people in the community directly can look into organizations such as Three Square. Three Square is a food bank dedicated to fighting hunger by providing meals to families in need. This organization accepts volunteers no younger than ten and requires accompanying adults for ages 10-15 while teens 16-17 are allowed to be on their own by bringing a signed waiver. Registration is available on their website along with a volunteer calendar to find opportunities that align with one’s schedule. Volunteers usually help pack food boxes, sort donations, or assist during distribution events. This type of work is simple yet has a strong impact because many families suffer from food insecurity. 

Another option is Project 150, which proclaims to be the best nonprofit organization in Las Vegas. They support high school students facing homelessness or financial struggles. Volunteering here often involves organizing clothing, school supplies, and hygiene products. This opportunity can feel more personal since it directly helps students who are in a similar age group and can be an eye-opening experience. 

“People don’t realize there are so many resources out there that can benefit your situation,”  Nevine Velayo said. “So many of our fellow students are struggling and worrying where their next meal will come from, not realizing that there are food pantries and other helpful organizations. Schools should promote these resources as much as they promote fun events.” 

Volunteering does not always have to involve large organizations. Simple activities like tutoring younger students, helping teachers after school, or participating in campus clean-up events can also count as community service and can be added on to college applications. These smaller efforts still contribute to the school and local community while being easier to fit into a busy schedule.