Special to the American Press

United Way of Southwest Louisiana is proud to announce that Summer of Service Initiative registration is now open. This program is designed to keep young people aged 13 to 18 engaged, active, and learning throughout the summer months. It aims to combat the well-documented “summer brain drain” by offering a structured opportunity for youth to volunteer, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections within their community.

The Summer of Service program will run from June 1 to July 30 and invites local teenagers to participate in community service and personal growth activities. Each project will take one to three hours, providing flexibility for busy summer schedules. Participants are encouraged to sign up for multiple dates to maximize the impact of their service.

“United Way of Southwest Louisiana is committed to building a stronger, healthier, and safer community,” said Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way of Southwest Louisiana. “Through the Summer of Service program, we aim to instill a lifelong passion for giving back in our youth. Research has shown that engaging young minds during the summer has significant educational and social benefits. We’re excited to offer this program to prevent summer learning loss while fostering a culture of service and empathy among the next generation.”

Volunteers will work alongside United Way of Southwest Louisiana staff on various projects to improve the community and assist those most in need. In doing so, they will gain a greater appreciation for the region’s diversity and the challenges faced by their neighbors. This Initiative provides a valuable service to the community and equips young volunteers with skills and experiences that will benefit them for years to come.

For more information or to sign up for the Summer of Service program, please visit unitedwayswla.org/summer-of-service. Together, we can make this summer a time of growth, learning, and community engagement for Southwest Louisiana’s youth.