http://www.idealist.org/

Idealist, like SERVEnet, offers a large searchable database where users can look for volunteer opportunities by entering their city or ZIP code and specifying their interests.

Again like SERVEnet, Idealist supplements its volunteering database with links to information about a range of service-related topics, such as the role of non-profit organizations in the community. However, only Idealist offers a separate database listing opportunities specifically for "Kids and Teens". The website also provides links to local volunteer centers in the U.S. and around the world, as well as other online volunteering portals.

Just as significantly, "Kids and Teens" links to a wealth of online information that goes beyond volunteering. This includes a "Take the Lead" section that introduces young people to the world of leadership. Here, youth with ideas for social action can learn how to move from idea into implementation, and how to secure funding for their projects. The section also offers thumbnail sketches of, and links to, organizations created by youth. Another section, entitled "World Around You," links to organizations that help youth take action on a range of issues: current events; environment, nature and animals; government and politics; health and body; human rights; music, arts, theater and expression; nonviolence and crime prevention; philanthropy, and poverty and hunger.

By providing volunteer options explicitly for youth, Idealist advances service and volunteering by this age group. By highlighting youth initiative and activism, Idealist makes an important statement: that volunteering does not stand alone as an option for engaging with society.

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