A How-To Guide

Being part of a community service project is a lot of fun, and it feels great to do something that helps other people. With a little bit of planning, a project can turn out even better than you imagined. I learned a lot when I organized the food drive.

Here’s my ten-step guide to picking and putting together a great project.

 

Mallory McDonald’s Ten-Step Guide to Planning a Great Community Service Project

STEP #1:

DETERMINE NEED. The first question to ask when planning a community service project is who or what do you want to help? There are so many groups that could use help—such as sick children, the elderly, homeless people, and abused animals.

STEP #2:

COME UP WITH A PLAN. Once you know what group you want to help, it’s time to start planning. Talk to your parents, teachers, and community leaders to get ideas. Brainstorm, make lists, and decide on a project!

STEP #3:

GET OTHER PEOPLE INVOLVED. It’s a lot more fun (and it works better too!) if you get other people involved in your project. Get your friends to volunteer. Ask your principal if you can post sign-up sheets or make an announcement at school.

STEP #4:

WORK AS A TEAM. When you’re doing a project, you can’t do everything yourself. Make sure everyone on your team has a job. If you all work together, you will get the job done.

STEP #5:

MAKE A SCHEDULE. It’s important to make a schedule and stick to it, especially if there is a deadline to your project, like a holiday.

STEP #6:

SPREAD THE WORD. It’s always a good idea to let other people know what you are doing. Talk to friends, family, businesses, and the news media. Pass out flyers. You never know who might want to volunteer or donate to your cause.

STEP #7:

LIGHTS, CAMERA, and ACTION! When it’s time to put your plan into place, make sure you’re ready. Check your to-do lists. Line up the supplies you need. Don’t forget to bring a camera. You’ll want pictures. Then it’s time to get to work!

STEP #8:

CLEAN UP. Be sure to clean up when your event or project is done.

STEP #9:

SAY THANK YOU. Make a list of everyone who volunteered or donated and be sure to thank every person. You can write letters or e-mails, or you can call people on the phone. People always like knowing they are appreciated.

STEP #10:

RELAX AND REFLECT. When your project is done, sit back and take the time to feel good knowing you’ve made a difference in your community. But also think about anything you could have done to make your project more successful. That way, you’ll know what to do next time!

And if things go wrong, don’t worry! There’s a solution for every problem. I promise!

Good luck! I hope my tips help you plan an awesome community service project.