For many students in Columbus, caring about the world often begins with a scroll, between updates about climate change, humanitarian crises and political debates running across social media feeds.
These issues can often feel overwhelming as young people try to make sense of these issues, leaving many unsure of where to start or uncertain that they can even make a meaningful difference.
Across the city, nonprofit organizations are giving students opportunities to contribute to their communities through volunteering, mentorship and environmental initiatives. These organizations provide ways for young people to turn concern about global issues into meaningful local action.
Some young people are trying to connect to the community in the world through organizations such as Community Refugee & Immigration Services, a Columbus-based non-profit that supports refugees and immigrants as they resettle in central Ohio.
The global number of international migrants in 2024 was 304 million, which has nearly doubled since 1990, according to the United Nations.
Fifteen percent of people in Columbus between 2020 and 2024 were immigrants, according to the United States Census Bureau.
“Youth volunteers can participate in a wide variety of services through our organization, including mentoring young students, supporting language growth, volunteering time at various events or even becoming an intern or fellow with us,” said Jeremy Hollon, associate director of community partnerships with CRIS.
Mentors often help students practice English, complete homework and explore local spaces together, building friendships while supporting academic and social growth.
The world today is facing unprecedented, interconnected environmental challenges, according to the United Nations Global Compact. Environmental organizations are also creating opportunities for students to make a difference in their communities. The city’s Keep Columbus Beautiful program encourages residents of all ages to participate in neighborhood cleanups and environmental efforts.
“From joining a litter cleanup outside a school to organizing a neighborhood pickup, students of all ages can play a big role in keeping Columbus beautiful,” said Aryeh Alex, executive director of the program. Cleanup events help educate young participants about the environmental impact of litter and the resources required to maintain public spaces, Alex said.
By participating in these efforts, students not only improve their neighborhoods but also gain a better understanding of environmental responsibility.
Other organizations focus on connecting students with environmental education and potential career paths. At Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, teenagers can volunteer alongside staff members in areas such as horticulture, exhibits, outreach and education.
“Teen Corps is a paid summer internship focusing on developing work-ready skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication, and time management, while introducing the teens to a variety of green careers through field trips and speakers,” said Michele Bailey, Teen Corps and farmers market coordinator.
While large global issues can sometimes feel overwhelming, local nonprofits demonstrate that meaningful change often begins within communities. For students in Columbus, these organizations offer a reminder that making a difference does not always require solving global problems, but rather it can start with volunteering time, supporting neighbors or helping care for the environment close to home.
Ashley Pasato Japa is a student at Columbus Alternative High School. This piece was written for Columbus Journalists in Training, a program sponsored by the Columbus Dispatch and Society of Professional Journalists Central Ohio Pro-Chapter and Columbus Association of Black Journalists for Columbus City Schools students.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus students turn global concerns into local action | Student project
Reporting by Ashley Pasato Japa, Columbus Journalists in Training / The Columbus Dispatch
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