Torrington and surrounding towns carry many volunteer and job positions available to high school students. Some opportunities are only one-time or seasonal, while others occur all year long.
Torringford Volunteers
Recently, an opportunity at Torringford Elementary School opened up, offering high school students the opportunity to volunteer with the kids in an after-school program. Corinne Chadwick, the founder and organizer of the program, shares exactly how the program works: “Students are able to volunteer for an hour after school, as many days per week that they’re available.”
Chadwick explains that volunteers are expected to stay committed to volunteering weekly, “but can discuss schedule changes with their matched teachers if they have sports practices or work that interferes.”
Through this program, high school students can help kids read, learn math, or write, while also benefiting themselves. “High school students benefit by getting experience in a real classroom setting. They learn to communicate and work with others by aiding their matched teacher, and learn to teach and work with kids,” states Corinne Chadwick.
If you are interested, you can reach out to Corinne Chadwick at [email protected].
Volunteer at KidsPlay Children’s Museum
Another opportunity to work with kids is with the KidsPlay Children’s Museum. KidsPlay provides a fun experience to gain volunteer hours while also becoming familiar with a work setting. KidsPlay website exclaims “[they] are always looking for volunteers to help out with programming, projects, and even the construction of new exhibits!”
Students can request certain days and time slots best for you on the volunteer form under the “About Us” page on the KidsPlay website. Or, email [email protected] with any questions.
Work at Ski Sundown
If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, you can get a job at a local mountain such as Ski Sundown, Mohawk Mountain, or Mount Southington! You can apply to work as a ski or snowboarding instructor, or if teaching is not your thing, you can work as a lift attendant or ski shop staff, starting at age 16.
If you are 15 years old, you can apply for Ski Sundown’s Junior Instructor program, which offers the ability to practice working with children and provides an easier transition into an instructing job the following winter. All availability can be found on the mountain’s website under “Employment.”
Chipotle Hiring
Chipotle in Torrington is hiring part-time and full-time Crew Members for individuals aged 16 and older. Chipotle looks for individuals with a friendly and enthusiastic attitude, experience is not required: “We’ll provide the training you need to feel confident working at any station – grill, cashier, prep, salsa and expo.”
Thoughts from an Expert
Mrs. Ledversis has had a lot of experience with volunteering and acting as a mentor for students as they seek to get involved in the community. She recognizes the importance of volunteering, “it teaches one responsibility, hard work, giving back, networking, meeting new friends, learning new skills, communication and the soft skills. One person can change a life and you never know when that can happen or who that person might be.”
Mrs. Ledversis also mentions a volunteer opportunity with PAL. “An organization like PAL welcomes volunteers all year long. Students might help with coaching or running a clinic with adults.” If you are interested in volunteering with PAL, you can find the volunteer form under “About Us” then “Get Involved,” on Torrington PALS’s website.
Guidance counselors frequently share new and one-time opportunities, so be sure to check your class’s Google Classroom regularly.
