Below are a few suggestions for successfully completing service hours:

1. Start by doing research on possible volunteer organizations. Before you volunteer, make sure the organization is a match for your interests.  Find out what the organization does in the community and the types of volunteer opportunities offered to teens.   An organization’s website is a great place to start your research.
2. Make sure they accept volunteers under the age of 18. There are thousands of volunteer organizations in Denver that provide many services to the community. Unfortunately, some opportunities are better suited for adults and/or the organization may not have the resources to supervise younger volunteers.  Find out if they accept youth volunteers by themselves or require an accompanying adult.  Check their website and/or call if you are unsure.
3. Find a contact within an organization who will help you complete your hours. Most service organizations have people who are paid to do this. They are often called volunteer coordinators or managers.  Call the organization and tell them that you want to volunteer. They should be able to put you in contact with someone to help coordinate your hours.   Remember to write down full names, phone numbers and other important information in case you need it in the future.
4. Document your hours and complete the reflection soon after your service experience. Service provides a participant with the opportunity to expand knowledge and gain new perspectives. You should make an effort to think about the information gained as a result of your hours and the ways your efforts may impact the community. Don’t forget to set aside a few minutes when you get home so you can write notes about your experience and document what you learned. This simple step will help later when it is time to write your reflection and submit hours.
   
   **It is critical to document your service experience soon after it occurs; write down your hours,  note what you learned as well as any memories from your experience.

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