A youth volunteer program recently featured in the Journal-World is promoting a couple of activities that would make good lifelong habits for the youngsters involved.

Through the Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service program, 16 area middle school students are dedicating 100 hours of service during their summer vacation. All of the projects they’re tackling have some connection to helping the environment. They are working through the city of Lawrence’s Adopt A Park program, cleaning up trails at Clinton Lake and the Hidden Valley Girl Scout Camp, working at the Baker Wetlands, gardening, landscaping and performing other chores.

So, not only are the youngsters learning the value and satisfaction of volunteerism, they are getting outside to enjoy nature and learn more about preserving the environment.

What a great way to spend a summer vacation!

Middle school students are too young to apply for most paying jobs, but they’re certainly not too young to lend a helping hand. The local volunteer project, made possible by a grant to the Roger Hill Volunteer Center, offers students many lessons about working together, following instructions and other valuable skills. Even more, however, we hope they learn the pleasure and satisfaction that comes from giving some of their time to projects that benefit their community.

The fact that the bulk of the work these youngsters are doing is done outside is an important bonus. We hope it will give them a new appreciation for nature, our environment and outdoor activities.

Summer of Service is only one of many opportunities local youngsters have to volunteer or work outdoors. A group of students working in the garden at West Junior High School are getting paid a little something for their work and started selling the fruits of their labors this week at a school market on Monday and Thursday afternoons.

Congratulations to all the Lawrence young people who are making good use of their summer by stepping up and volunteering or participating in community events. It’s a lesson in community involvement that will serve them well throughout their lifetimes.