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Join the club - 59% of teenagers volunteer in the U.S. every year to do their part in changing the world. Even a little means a lot.

3 hours a week is usually all it takes. That's not too harsh, and while you're helping out, you'll also be able to meet up with people your own age, and get good work experience (by the way, volunteering looks really great on a resume.)

There's a good handful of sites where you can find out where to volunteer, or lend a hand in your community at hospitals, senior citizen centers, nature preserves or animal shelters.

Check 'em out...

Youth Noise - Ways to help the world's voiceless with ideas for hassling Congress, contacting the press, and getting your voice heard, along with action plans for fundraising and volunteering.

VolunteerMatch - Bang in your zip code plus your area of interest, and find volunteering opportunities right in your neighborhood.

Volunteer Solutions - More volunteer jobs searchable by U.S. zip code, and a good way to make a difference in your local hospital, from United Way.

Kids Can Make a Difference - Info for middle school and high school students and what they can do to fight hunger in the world, with ideas you can start right away in your school or community.

Landmark Volunteers - It's not exactly a free vacation, but check out hundreds of places to volunteer for the summer - at national parks & beaches, camps, nature preserves and historic places across the U.S.

20 Ways for Teenagers to Help Other People by Volunteering - Beat boredom with ideas from The Teenagers Guide to the Real World.

The Guardian Campaign - Help stray pets, raise awareness of animal rights in your neighborhood with printable brochures, and learn more from other kids who are volunteering in their neighborhoods.

also see in Teens -> Teens & Politics