How we spent our summer… volunteering

Southern Nevada VA concluded an awesome VA Summer Youth Volunteer program with a graduation ceremony Aug. 9. The 22 students from community high schools contributed 2,849 volunteer hours in 10 different VA Services.

Summer youth, ages 14 through 18, worked from June 4 to Aug. 8. Students were provided with a list of VA services and programs that were interested in having a student over the summer and asked to choose their top three areas. Students were matched based on their interest and available schedule, most volunteering over 120 hours.

While learning the importance of VA's mission and ICARE Values, students shared their enthusiasm with VA staff and Veterans, remaining highly engaged all summer.

"The summer youth volunteers were exceptional," said Stephanie Wheeler, Fisher House program manager. "Those assigned to Fisher House would jump in and help with anything, even before they were asked. They helped guests with carrying in luggage, cleaning common areas and even baking delicious treats for guests to enjoy. We truly miss their contagious enthusiasm in serving military families who lodge at our Fisher House."

Experiences shared by the students were extremely positive, some stating they learned a lot about VA's mission and having fun while they did so. Ryan Navarrete-Pak, a student assigned to prosthetics, said, "Volunteering with VA was a very good experience all around. You get to meet Veterans who served our country, some who do not have anyone to help them along their journey."

"I learned the value of empathy, teamwork and resilience and developed skills that will stay with me forever. Working here deepened my appreciation for the sacrifices made by our Veterans and inspired me to continue serving my community with the same dedication," said Alysa Cruz, a summer youth assigned to public affairs.

"The youth volunteers brought such positive energy and a fresh perspective to dental service. It is refreshing to see our youth take their personal time to dedicate themselves to help our Veterans. I also believe that the VA Summer Youth program had a profound impact on their personal lives," Dr. Yessenia Fields, chief of Dental Service.

The Summer Youth program was a great success and reinforced the importance of giving back to the community and valuing the sacrifices our Veterans made for our country. Some of the youth will pursue careers in health care while others may explore a future in federal service because of their rewarding experience.

If you would like to explore becoming a youth volunteer at your local VA, find an office near you.

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