Local youths have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in their community this summer.

Hands On Thomas County is currently looking for volunteers to participate in its annual summer service camp, Project IMPACT, scheduled for June 14-18.

“Project IMPACT is a week-long camp for high school students to learn about volunteer opportunities in the community,” HOTC Executive Director Casey Dyksterhouse said.

“Students learn about the various non-profit organizations and the populations they serve but, more importantly, students experience how they can make a difference by participating in volunteer service projects throughout the week.”

The camp is open to rising ninth through 12th grade students.

“Only 40 spots are available and it is first-come, first-serve,” Dyksterhouse said.

During the week, students will participate in two service projects per day with varied focus, according to an HOTC news release.

Opportunities include food distribution, working alongside Habitat for Humanity, assisting in restoration of a local landmark, building friendships with special populations, and providing fun activities for young children.

Sterling Ivey, 19, is student leader this year. He said it should be a fun week for everyone.

“I think HOTC is looking to expand to other organizations and trying to mix it up a little bit this year so there will be some new gigs,” he said. “It should be a fun week; I’m really excited about it.”

Dyksterhouse said it is very important for youths to experience volunteerism.

“High school age students live in a very ‘me-centered’ world,” she said. “This experience helps them to see outside themselves and gives them a chance to serve their community and to see how good giving can feel.

“These young people are the future of this community and we want to start early teaching them how to use their individual skills and talents for the greater good. We hope to create a legacy of service.”

Caroline Smith, a rising 10th-grader at the Thomasville City Scholar’s Academy, attended IMPACT last year.

“There were so many organizations that I never knew existed,” she said. “I was able to learn about them, work with them and learn about other ways I could volunteer with them during the school year.”

Smith looks forward to attending this year and has invited some of her friends to participate, too.

Annalee Jackson, 14, plans to participate this year.

“I’m hoping to have a fun experience while getting my community service hours,” she said. “I did it last year with my youth group and am hoping to have another great experience this year.”

To sign-up, call the HOTC office at 226-5200 or go by its location, 312 N. Broad St.

“It was a life-changing experience for me,” Ivey said. “I first signed up, reluctantly, in ninth grade, but this has come to be a favorite time of the year. I think volunteering is something you get hooked on, and it is a great way to meet others your age.”