Growing Young Leaders in Austin with Generation SERVE

In Austin, a unique nonprofit is cultivating something far more profound than volunteer hours — they’re growing compassionate, engaged community leaders. Generation SERVE transforms youth volunteerism from a simple checkbox activity into a meaningful life experience.

Generation SERVE offers age-specific programs that introduce children to impactful community service. Their innovative approach is aimed at connecting young people directly with local organizations like Austin Pets Alive, Foster Village and the Women’s Storybook Project, creating hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond traditional volunteering.

What sets Generation SERVE apart is its commitment to youth leadership. Their teen advisory board doesn’t just participate; they are given the opportunity to lead. These young volunteers design and oversee service days, gaining critical leadership skills, while addressing real community needs. Whether sorting books at Bookspring, supporting seniors at local living centers or helping at the Salvation Army, participants learn the power of collective action.

The organization’s programming spans multiple age groups. Preschoolers as young as 3 can join family volunteering sessions, learning empathy and community engagement alongside their parents. Teens develop sophisticated service skills through targeted leadership programs that challenge them to think strategically about community challenges.

For parents seeking meaningful activities that develop character, Generation SERVE offers an ideal solution. Opportunities for youth to do more than volunteer, but to lead with a service driven mindset. 

“I think Generation SERVE fosters a culture of volunteerism and community service among families. It also instills values of empathy, responsibility and civic engagement in children,” explains a parent of Generation SERVE volunteers.

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Generation SERVE’s Family Volunteer Day event. (Photo by Christopher Rogers)

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Volunteering starts at a young age with Generation SERVE (photo by Christopher Rogers)

With a network of 139 community partners, Generation SERVE is able to connect their 1928 youth volunteers with service experiences that transform them into active citizens with leadership capabilities that will serve them throughout their lives.

“I feel like Generation SERVE has given me a drive to do good for our community and to just do the tiniest things to make a person’s day better,” adds a teen leader.

In a world that often feels disconnected, Generation SERVE reminds us that community strength begins with education, empathy and active participation.

Learn more about ways you can get involved at www.generationserve.org.

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