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All-Star Coaches Guide: How to Help Project Guidelines
All-Stars Coaches' Guide - How to Help
Disney Adventures All-Stars Coaches' Manual - A Guide for Interested Adults

III. Trouble-shooting Tips for Popular Types of Volunteer Projects for Young People

Working with Other Youth

  • Be clear and firm about the rules
  • Make sure ratio of volunteers to small children is kept low
  • Do not let kids out of sight
  • Be sure volunteers are supervised
  • Partner with local schools and Head Starts

    Running Drives
  • Collect only what you contracted to collect
  • Check local health codes
  • Designate volunteers to collect items
  • Be sure volunteers are familiar with all organizations
  • Set standards for goods to be collected

    The Environment
  • Consult with area experts about proper handling, storage and disposal of collected materials
  • Be sure volunteers wear appropriate clothing
  • Pay special attention to small children around the site
  • Check to see limits of collection centers

    Working with Seniors
  • Don't try to do too much
  • Allow for visiting time with each senior
  • Make sure to check on dietary restrictions if providing food
  • Have staff or volunteers on hand who know first aid
  • Try to partner with local senior centers or groups

    Hunger and Homelessness
  • Start small (helping one family or donating to a food drive)
  • Work with agencies to identify recipients for food, clothing, etc. before starting a drive
  • Be sure donations are in good condition
  • Be sure you have storage facilities
  • Ask shelters and soup kitchens about other ways your group may get involved

      Quick Jump

  • Getting Started
  • How to Help Select a Project
  • Trouble-shooting Tips for Popular Types of Volunteer Projects for Young People
  • Designing Age-Appropriate Projects
  • Project idea starters and examples of service projects for grades K-5
  • What is and is not age appropriate service for K-5 students?
  • Project idea starters and examples of service projects for grades 6-8
  • What is and is not age appropriate service for grades 6-8?
  • Project idea starters and examples of service projects for high school students
  • What is and is not age appropriate service for high school students?