A youth worker is a professional who works with children, pre-teens, or teenagers. He or she may work for a church or a non-profit organization, and is frequently involved in event planning, youth counseling, or simply talking and interacting with young people. A youth worker’s role may also include that of an older brother or sister or a mentor.
Young people who have positive influences in their lives, such as an older sibling or friend, are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like teenage sex and drug or alcohol use, according to studies. Many families have one or both parents who are unable to spend time with their children due to work or other obligations. This can lead to the child behaving inappropriately. Youth workers may intervene to provide positive role models for children and teens in order to keep them out of dangerous situations.
Volunteers make up a large percentage of youth workers. Some of the volunteers are teenagers or young adults who work with church youth groups or organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. These organizations typically provide valuable lessons to children as well as activities and field trips. Volunteers take part in these activities, assist with planning, and speak with children about issues that may be troubling them.
At other times, a youth worker is a paid professional who works for a nonprofit organization, finding volunteers and leading activities, to counsel children who have experienced traumatic events. Some may work as youth ministers or counselors for churches or schools. These people are usually well-trained to spot at-risk behavior in children and adolescents and to provide solutions.
Children and teenagers who interact with youth workers reap numerous benefits. If their ideas and interests are valued and encouraged a mentor, they are less likely to seek companionship on the streets. Children may also benefit from having someone other than their parents to talk to about issues such as drugs, sex, and peer pressure. Some volunteers may have been at-risk youths themselves and can provide insight into the dangers of certain activities as well as alternatives.
If someone is interested, almost anyone can become a youth worker. Volunteers are frequently needed non-profit organizations and churches. The main requirements are that you love kids, that you don’t have a serious criminal record unless otherwise specified, and that you have the time to devote to the youths involved.