Youth-Led Service Projects

We offer a range of award-level projects that can be completed within our organization and maintain a running list of available projects to choose from. Proposals for new projects are welcome, but must be feasible and align with our programs' priorities.

How to Get Started

Leading a youth service project at Galveston Bay Foundation is a collaborative process. Our staff are here to guide you, but the project is yours to plan, lead, and carry through.

1. Explore available projects, review guidelines, and gather your thoughts
   Review the example project opportunities below and consider which align with your interests, skills, and required award criteria. Prepare any notes you have on projects you have in mind and be prepared to answer questions about what interests you.
2. Submit the Youth Leadership Interest Form.
   Share your background, goals, and any project ideas you are considering. This helps staff determine fit, feasibility, and timing.
3. Meet with GBF staff.
   Accepted applicants will work with staff to select or refine a project, confirm scope, and identify next steps.
4. Plan and lead your project.
   You are responsible for organizing, coordinating, and leading your project, with staff support and oversight as needed.
5. Complete and document your work.
   After your project is complete, you will provide photos and basic documentation for GBF records and award verification.

Youth Leader Guidelines

• Meeting Etiquette & Staff Availability: Volunteers should be mindful that staff members have other responsibilities and obligations outside of your project. Schedule meetings in advance, preferably during business hours.
• Timelines and Progression: Once the project is approved, a reasonable timeline will be established. Adhere to this timeline and communicate any delays or changes promptly.
• Respectful Communication: Communicate with staff in a respectful and professional manner. Respond to emails or phone calls promptly and courteously.
• Safety & Leave No Trace: Follow safety protocols provided by staff and practice "Leave No Trace" to minimize environmental impact.
• Waiver & Coordination: Ensure all volunteers sign a GBF service waiver and coordinate volunteer registration through the private portal. If another portal will be used, hardcopy waivers will be required for any workdays occurring on GBF property.

Questions?

If you have any questions after reading over the following information or before filling out our form below, please contact the appropriate GBF staff member listed below.

GBF Staff Contacts	Organizations
Starla Lawhon-Dyer Volunteer Coordinator	BSA, 4-H, NJHS, FFA, AHG
Emily Bilin Education Manager	GSA

Award-level Youth Projects

If you don’t see a project that interests you, consider what types of projects interest you, how they align with our mission, and whether it would satisfy the criteria of the award you are pursuing.