What Volunteering Taught Us: Real Voices from Young Volunteers
- Charlotte Chinese Story Time
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
Over the past year, something incredible has been growing quietly at Charlotte Chinese Story Time—not just the number of events, but the hearts and abilities of our young volunteers.
Many people think of children as passive participants in community events. But through a full year of hands-on involvement, our youth volunteers have proven otherwise. This summer, we interviewed some of them to ask a simple question:
What did you learn after a year of volunteering?
The answers surprised us—not because they were “big,” but because they were real.
“I learned how to help others.”
“I even learned how to sell things!”
“And my Chinese got so much better!”
These kids aren’t just learning new skills—they’re gaining real-world confidence, empathy, and responsibility.
From greeting families at the door to helping younger children with crafts, from setting up chairs to running cultural booths at community fairs, every small task became a meaningful step in their personal growth.
Some used to be shy—now they’re the first to say hello.Some didn’t speak Chinese well—now they’re confidently introducing themselves at storytime.Some never thought they could manage money or run a booth—now they’ve helped sell traditional goods at cultural events.
These are not just "volunteer hours." They are lived experiences, full of small triumphs and quiet moments that shape character.
Why It Matters
At Charlotte Chinese Story Time, we believe that learning happens far beyond the classroom. Community service offers children a chance to practice real communication, build leadership, and experience the joy of giving—all while strengthening their cultural identity and language skills.
When children feel that their time and effort matter, they develop a strong sense of purpose. And when they serve as a team, they build bonds, confidence, and lasting memories.
Want Your Child to Be Part of This Journey?
We’re now recruiting youth and family volunteers for the 2025–2026 season, and we’d love to welcome new faces into our growing team.
Volunteers help with:
Event setup and cleanup
Assisting younger children
Storytelling support
Cultural activities and booths
Behind-the-scenes planning
Open to ages 6+ with parent participation
Sign up at www.cltchinesestorytime.org/volunteer
Contact: volunteer@cltchinesestorytime.org
Let your child grow through stories, service, and smiles.
Come volunteer with us—one story, one child, one act of service at a time.
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