Summer volunteer programs for high schoolers in Los Angeles offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various fields while making a meaningful impact on the community. These programs are designed for community service, social impact, or humanitarian work, allowing you to contribute your time to causes like environmental conservation, education, or healthcare. By volunteering, you not only support important initiatives but also develop advanced skills that will serve you well in the future.
How are volunteer programs different from free programs?
When we talk about volunteer programs, it’s important to distinguish them from free programs. Volunteer programs focus on social good and hands-on involvement, while free programs are typically geared toward academic enrichment or career exploration, such as research, STEM camps, or writing workshops. While both types of programs provide valuable experiences, volunteer programs are particularly useful for developing practical skills and gaining in-depth experience in specific fields, whether through direct service, leadership roles, or behind-the-scenes operations.
Here are 15 volunteer programs for high school students in Los Angeles!
1. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles High School Summer Volunteer Program
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles offers a summer program for high school students who have completed their freshman year. As a volunteer, you will assist patients, families, and hospital staff by escorting patients to appointments, greeting them upon arrival, and helping with administrative tasks. The program requires a commitment of 15 hours per week, which can be divided into two full days (9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or spread across four separate morning or afternoon shifts. The program selects 20 students annually, and applicants must submit two recommendations and an essay as part of the application process.
Location: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free for all accepted participants
Application Deadline: February 10
Program Dates: June 16 — August 1
Eligibility: High school applicants must be aged 15–17 by the program start date.
2. UCLA Health Volunteen Summer Program
UCLA Health’s Volunteen Summer Program offers high school students the opportunity to assist in areas such as patient transport, wayfinding, and delivery services. As a volunteer, you will help with patient discharges and transfers, greeting visitors, providing wheelchair and escort services, and delivering mail and newspapers to patients. The program requires a commitment of at least 50 volunteer hours, and you can choose a schedule that works for you. Participation is competitive, and only a limited number of volunteers are accepted each year, so it is recommended to apply early.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free for all accepted participants
Application Deadline: The applications usually open in January and close in early spring
Program Dates: Orientation dates usually take place in the second week of June, and the participants must complete 50 volunteer hours by August 31.
Eligibility: Students who are at least 16 years old at the time of registration are eligible to apply.
3. Cedars-Sinai High School Student Volunteers
Volunteering at Cedars-Sinai provides a unique opportunity for high school students interested in healthcare careers. It allows you to interact directly with patients and healthcare staff, offering a hands-on perspective of how a large medical center functions. The experience helps you develop a deeper understanding of the healthcare field and gain valuable skills in a real-world setting. Cedars-Sinai’s Teen Volunteer Program offers three sessions for 2025, and volunteers are expected to commit to a full session. It’s important to choose a session that fits your schedule, as complete attendance is required.
Location: Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: December 5 (winter) | April 4 (summer) | August 29 (fall)
Program Dates: January 27–April 13 (winter) | June 16 — July 20 (summer) | October 6 — December 15 (fall)
Eligibility: High school student volunteers must be 14–18 years old and enrolled in high school.
4. American Red Cross Los Angeles Region Volunteer Opportunities
The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region offers a valuable volunteer experience for high school students, with over 2,000 youth volunteers across the area. Through various programs, you’ll have the chance to fundraise, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the Red Cross mission.
One of the key opportunities is the Youth Corps Program, where 40 Youth Corps Executive Officers lead and organize activities for youth across five territories. You can also start a Red Cross Club, join the Youth Corps Executive Board, or even apply for the American Red Cross National Youth Council. These opportunities allow you to engage in meaningful work while gaining hands-on experience and foundational skills useful for roles in this field.
Location: Los Angeles region, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected opportunity
Eligibility: High school student volunteers must be 13–24 years old. If under 18, students will need consent from a parent or guardian before beginning their Red Cross experience.
5. Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Volunteer Opportunities
The Volunteer Services Department at Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles offers high school students the opportunity to contribute to the local community while gaining hands-on experience. Volunteers, aged 15 ½ and older, come from a diverse range of backgrounds and share a common goal of providing support to members, visitors, and staff. While many volunteers are Kaiser Permanente members, this opportunity is open to everyone as long as they have a strong desire to help and a willingness to serve in various areas.
Opportunities may vary, and departments are assigned according to the needs at the time. Interns are expected to assist with various tasks, including supporting members, visitors, and staff, while gaining hands-on experience in different departments based on their skills and service orientation. Volunteers are placed and trained based on their skills and service orientation, and placements are determined after the onboarding process.
Location: Kaiser Permanente, West Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected opportunity
Eligibility: Must be at least 15 and a 1/2 years old, commit to a weekly 4-hour shift for at least 200 hours over the course of one year, demonstrate professional behavior, maintain a positive attitude, and be flexible in work assignments.
6. Foot on Foot Volunteer Opportunities
Food on Foot is a nonprofit in Los Angeles that helps unhoused and low-income individuals by providing meals, clothing, and support for a fresh start through life skills training, employment, and permanent housing. As a volunteer, you will assist in distributing food, clothing, and essential supplies to those in need, while also engaging with participants in the Jobs & Housing program. This program helps individuals secure full-time jobs and housing, offering life skills training and support to help them achieve lasting independence.
Volunteering with Food on Foot is an opportunity to give back to the community while learning about the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. It’s also an inclusive environment where families can volunteer together, as children 6 and older are welcome to participate. Volunteering here allows you to contribute in making a difference for the community while gaining insight into social services and community support.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected opportunity.
Eligibility: High school students are welcome to apply, but anyone under 18 must sign up online and be accompanied by a supervising ticketed adult.
7. Los Angeles Boys and Girls Club Volunteer
The Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club offers high school students the opportunity to volunteer and make a positive impact on youth in the community, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The club provides a range of programs, including food and nutrition services, after-school activities, full-day programs, and holiday camps.
As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to support and guide children and teens while helping them develop important skills for their futures. The volunteer process includes an application, interview, background check, and a meeting with the Program Director. This ensures that you are placed in a program that aligns with your skills and interests.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected opportunity.
Eligibility: While details on age aren’t specified, eligibility criteria include a regular commitment with consistent attendance at a set day and time.
8. Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles Youth Programs
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles offers volunteer opportunities for high school students interested in community service and construction. If you’re 16 or older, you can participate in hands-on work by helping to build or renovate homes for families in need. For younger teens, ages 14–15, there are opportunities to volunteer in the ReStores, where you can assist with inventory and customer service.
If your school doesn’t already have a Habitat for Humanity Campus Club, you can apply to partner with Habitat LA to fundraise, advocate, and raise awareness about affordable homeownership. The organization also engages youth through various campaigns like Nickels for Nails, where you can help raise funds to sponsor a Habitat home. Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity gives you the chance to contribute to a meaningful cause while gaining valuable skills in construction, teamwork, and advocacy.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected opportunity. Contact [email protected] to learn more about the programs!
Eligibility: Each program has specific age criteria, but most are open to high school students.
9. Los Angeles Animal Services Volunteer
Volunteering at an animal shelter through LA Animal Services offers high school students the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of abandoned and orphaned animals. As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to work with dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals, providing them with care, attention, socialization, and playtime to help them find permanent homes.
You can choose to work with any or all of the animals, and there are additional volunteer opportunities in areas such as adoptions, greeting customers, photography, grooming, humane education, and even marketing. Whether you’re assisting staff, engaging with the public, or supporting administrative tasks, this volunteer opportunity allows you to gain experience while helping animals in need.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable, however, volunteers must commit to a minimum of six hours a month for six months.
Eligibility: Volunteers must be at least 12 years old, with those aged 12–15 requiring an adult sponsor to volunteer together, and those 16–17 needing a parent or guardian at orientation before volunteering independently, with a minimum commitment of six hours per month for six months.
10. Koreatown Youth + Community Center Volunteer Opportunities
The Koreatown Youth + Community Center (KYCC) offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for high school students looking to make an impact in their community. By volunteering with KYCC, you can contribute to meaningful programs and services that aim to create real change in the local area. With over 2,000 volunteers and interns involved each year, there’s a range of ways to get involved, whether you’re interested in direct service, outreach, or supporting the organization’s mission.
Volunteers can expect to engage in a variety of activities, including direct service, outreach, and supporting programs that aim to create positive change in the local community. If you don’t find an opportunity that fits, you can reach out to KYCC, as they sometimes create positions based on specific needs and your skills. Volunteering here allows you to gain experience while contributing to a difference.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on the selected event- with summer included.
Eligibility: Open to high school students.
11. LAXceeders Student Volunteer Program
The LAXceeders Student Volunteer Program offers high school students the chance to gain valuable experience while contributing to guest services at Los Angeles International Airport. As a volunteer, you will assist airport guests by providing helpful information and ensuring a positive experience.
Your role involves engaging with visitors in a friendly and professional manner, offering assistance, and supporting the airport’s outreach efforts. The program also gives you the flexibility to set your own volunteer schedule while fulfilling your commitments. This allows you to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic setting while making a meaningful impact on the community.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable based on selected events. Available during the summer.
Eligibility: Volunteers must be 16–18 years old, currently enrolled in grades 10–12, commit to a minimum of 3 shifts (9 hours) per month, provide a valid photo ID, and complete the Los Angeles World Airports’ fingerprint and badging process.
12. Los Angeles Public Library Teen Volunteer
The Los Angeles Public Library offers volunteer opportunities for high school students aged 14–17 across its 73 locations. As a teen volunteer, you can assist librarians with organizing and arranging the teen area, creating library displays, working on special projects, helping with summer reading programs, and serving lunches.
You may also support events like book sales and provide homework assistance. This program provides an opportunity to engage with the library’s programs and services while gaining experience in a community setting. To get involved, you can reach out to the Young Adult Librarian or Senior Librarian at your local library.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable, but offered during the summer.
Eligibility: Volunteers must be between ages 14–19.
13. Los Angeles Zoo Docent Volunteer Program
If you enjoy working with animals and engaging with people, becoming a docent at the L.A. Zoo could be a great volunteer opportunity for you. As a docent, you’ll serve as a zoo guide and educator, sharing information about the animals and conservation efforts with visitors. The role involves guiding tours, interpreting different habitats, and facilitating educational activities. Through training, you’ll develop a better understanding of the Zoo’s wildlife and learn effective communication skills to engage visitors and raise awareness about wildlife and habitat conservation.
Note: This role does not involve working directly with animals.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable
Eligibility: Must be at least 15 years old, enjoy interacting with people of all ages, commit to volunteering at least 60 hours per year for a minimum of two years, and have a passion for wildlife and conservation.
14. California Science Center Volunteer Opportunities
The California Science Center offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for high school students interested in engaging with visitors and supporting educational experiences. As a volunteer, you can take on roles such as a Guest Services Host, where you will help guests by answering questions, providing directions, and offering guidance on exhibits. Special Exhibit volunteers assist with specific exhibits, educating guests about the science behind them in an interactive way.
If you’re interested in retail, you can volunteer at the ExploraStore, where you’ll demonstrate unique gift items and assist customers. Other roles include being an Air & Space Host, Education Floor Presenter, or even a Youth Volunteer for the summer. These positions give you the chance to develop communication and customer service skills while contributing to a hands-on learning environment.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable
Eligibility: Depends on the selected volunteer role. Some programs are open to high school students aged 16 and above.
15. L.A. Works Volunteer Opportunities
L.A. Works offers people of all age groups the opportunity to volunteer and make a difference in addressing community issues. Each year, they mobilize thousands of volunteers to tackle challenges such as climate action, housing insecurity, economic opportunity, education equity, disaster preparedness, and food insecurity. As a volunteer, you can choose from a variety of in-person or virtual opportunities that align with your interests and schedule. Volunteering with L.A. Works allows you to contribute to meaningful causes while gaining experience in community service and working alongside other passionate individuals.
Location: Los Angeles, CA or virtual.
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Open enrollment
Program Dates: Variable
Eligibility: Varies based on selected volunteer opportunity. Some programs involve kid volunteers or entire families taking part.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source: University of California, Los Angeles
