Summer Goals: Giving Back and Bridging Generations by Zane (incoming 9th grader), and Finn & Riley (incoming 11th graders)

From Zane, a Future Freshman (9th Grade):

This summer, I’m setting goals that help me grow and give back. One of the biggest things I want to focus on is helping in my community—especially with older adults who may not be as comfortable with technology. Volunteering at senior tech hours has already shown me how rewarding it is to teach someone how to use their phone or send an email. It’s a small action, but it can mean a lot. I’m also getting involved with Canine Companions and learning how service dogs are trained to support people with disabilities. It’s cool to see how much responsibility and care goes into raising these dogs, and I’m excited to be part of something that helps others in such a big way.

As I get ready for high school, I want to keep stepping out of my comfort zone, meeting new people, and doing things that matter. Helping across generations and learning from programs like Canine Companions is a great way to grow and make a real difference this summer.

From Finn, an Incoming 11th Grader:

I’ve been volunteering for a while now, and one of my favorite parts is working with people from different generations. Whether it’s helping a senior figure out how to FaceTime their grandkids or sharing stories, it’s always a learning experience.

This summer, I want to keep leading and helping organize events like tech hours and support programs like Canine Companions. I’m looking forward to learning about how service dogs are trained to help people with disabilities, and how that kind of partnership can make everyday life more independent and empowering.

I’m also setting some personal goals this summer. As a swimmer, I’m working hard to improve my times and train more consistently. I’m focusing not just on my own progress, but on helping my teammates push themselves too. Whether it’s pacing during sets or encouraging each other through tough workouts, I want to be a positive leader in and out of the water.

Volunteering and sports have both taught me how to be patient, how to lead, and how to really listen. I think the best part is knowing we’re not just giving help—we’re building connections that last and becoming stronger as a team and a community.

From Riley, an Incoming 11th Grader:

This summer, I’m focusing on two things I care a lot about: community service and learning. I’m really looking forward to being part of senior tech help sessions. I'm also tutoring an incoming 6th grader math to help him be prepared for the fall. It will be interesting to compare the techniques I use to teach seniors versus elementary school students. Will I approach teaching the same way, or will I need to adjust my methods based on the person's age or generation?

I’m also excited to learn more about Canine Companions and how they train service dogs to help people with disabilities. Volunteering with them will help me see the power of support, not just from people, but from animals too.

My goal is to keep building bridges—between generations, between communities, and between people and the support they need. I also want to encourage younger teens to get involved early and discover how much of a difference they can make.

Together: Whether you’re just starting high school or already deep into summer is a great time to grow, give back, and connect with others. Volunteering helps us build a stronger, more united community—one conversation, one action, and one generation at a time.