Published June 27, 2025
Get Out & Give Back: Summer Teen Volunteer Opportunities
Do you have teens looking to make their summer count? We’ve rounded up local volunteer opportunities that are fun, flexible, and full of purpose—from farms to food banks and everything in between.
Northwest Children’s Outreach (NCO): We have been a longtime supporter of NCO, an all-volunteer organization that provides clothing, supplies, and toys to children in need throughout the Portland metro area. They are always in need of families willing to help at the service centers in Portland, Tualatin, and Beaverton. To learn more, visit their site. Also, if you have gently used kids' coats, clothing, or toys, start setting them aside for our 5th Annual Coffee & Coats event on September 27!
Oregon Food Bank (OFB): Oregon’s largest food bank partners with more than 1400 distribution sites across the state and SW Washington on a mission to eliminate hunger for all. They offer volunteer opportunities for kids as young as 8 years old (with a parent). It’s also an excellent opportunity for groups, such as sports teams or businesses, to spend a day of service. To learn more, visit their site.
Zenger Farm: This unique urban farm offers volunteer programs that enable youth to get their hands dirty, learn where their food comes from, and contribute to the well-being of others in the community. To learn about monthly opportunities, click here.
Habitat for Humanity-Portland Region: If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity to work alongside your teen, Habitat has opportunities for teens (ages 14+) working in their ReStore retail locations and teens (ages 16+) for construction site projects. Click to learn more.
Cat Adoption Team (CAT): The largest cat shelter in the Pacific Northwest offers adoption, foster care, and veterinarian services to homeless cats and kittens. They have a variety of volunteer events for kids as young as 12 (with parental supervision under 16). Visit their website for full details.
Still looking for other ideas for teens? Be sure to visit Hands on Greater Portland, the ultimate local resource connecting volunteers with organizations focused on helping the community.
