Though many high schools require community service to graduate, teens may not be aware of the benefits that volunteering can provide. Volunteering teaches responsibility, compassion, empathy, and professionalism, and colleges look favorably on a resumé that demonstrates a commitment to helping others. Even more opportunities for dedicated teens abound if they look in the right places. The rewards of doing good are more tangible in the case of scholarships, many of which seek out students who give generously of their time and effort.

Case in point, the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship recently announced its winners for 2011. The national scholarship recipients, who range in age from 10 to 17, were awarded $10,000 each. Each undertook a service project that required “efforts above and beyond what is expected of a child his or her age.” In addition, Kohl’s will donate $1,000 a non-profit on the behalf of each winner. The nomination process for next year’s recipients begins in February, so, if you know a great teen who might qualify and want more information about the program, see the program rules here.

The great news is that Kohl’s is just one of many businesses offering this kind of scholarship. Other corporations also have awards, like Prudential Financial’s Spirit of Community Awards, Bank of America’s Student Leader Program, Campus Direct’s High School Discus Awards, and TeenNick’s Halo Awards. Even the government, through the Congressional Award for young Americans (14-23), as well as charitable groups like TeenInk, and Youth Service America, have their own monetary awards for students involved in leadership and community service. For more information on other college funding resources, see our “College Funding” page.

Of course, it can be hard for busy teens to get motivated or find the time to get their service hours in, but there are so many wonderful ways to volunteer that fit with every interest and personality. Animal-lovers can work in shelters, artists can teach classes to children or at senior centers, and athletes can coach elementary school students. In rural areas, adventurous teens can even begin volunteering as cadets with volunteer ambulance or search-and-rescue companies. And that’s just the beginning – if teens need a place to start looking for a non-profit where they can volunteer, TeenLife has listings of national organizations and local groups in cities all over the country.