The Future of Volunteering is at Risk

60% of volunteers are over 65. What happens when they can't serve anymore?

38% Decline

Youth volunteering has dropped 38% since 2005, creating a critical gap in community service that threatens the future of nonprofit organizations.

The Crisis in Numbers

These statistics reveal why we urgently need young volunteers to step up and fill the growing gap in community service

1 in 5

Young adults volunteer regularly

1 in 3

Adults 65+ volunteer regularly

76%

Nonprofits struggle to recruit volunteers under 30

40%

Organizations have reduced services due to volunteer shortages

$184B

Annual economic value of volunteer work in the US

2030

Projected year when volunteer shortage reaches crisis levels

Find Your Perfect Volunteer Match

Take our quick quiz to discover volunteer opportunities that match your passions!

What sounds most appealing to you?

🐾

Working with animals or in nature

💝

Helping people directly

🎨

Creative and artistic projects

Sports and active pursuits

🌿 Perfect! You're a Nature & Animal Lover

You'd be amazing at:

  • 🐕 Animal shelter volunteering
  • 🦋 Wildlife rehabilitation
  • 🌱 Community gardens
  • 🌊 Environmental clean-up projects
Get Connected

💝 Amazing! You're a Natural Helper

You'd be perfect for:

  • 📚 Mentoring younger students
  • 👵 Senior center activities
  • 🍽️ Food banks and soup kitchens
  • 🏠 Homeless shelter support
Get Connected

🎨 Fantastic! You're a Creative Changemaker

You'd be amazing at:

  • 🎭 Art programs for kids
  • 🎪 Community theater
  • 🖌️ Mural painting projects
  • 🎵 Music programs for seniors
Get Connected

⚽ Awesome! You're an Active Leader

You'd be great at:

  • 🏃 Coaching youth sports
  • 🏅 Special Olympics support
  • 🚴 Outdoor adventure programs
  • 🏋️ Community fitness events
Get Connected

Young Volunteers Making a Difference

Meet the incredible young people who are already changing their communities

👩‍🎓
Sarah, 16
Animal Shelter Volunteer

"I started volunteering at the animal shelter last year and fell in love with helping dogs find their forever homes. I've helped 23 dogs get adopted!"

🧑‍🤝‍🧑
Marcus, 18
Youth Mentor

"Mentoring middle school students has been amazing. Seeing their confidence grow when they master new skills is the best feeling in the world."

🎨
Emma, 17
Community Artist

"I've helped paint 3 murals in our downtown area. It's incredible to see how art can bring a community together and brighten everyone's day."

Partner with Us

Connect with passionate young volunteers who are ready to make a difference

🎯
Pre-Screened Volunteers

We match you with youth who are genuinely interested in your cause and ready to commit.

📈
Increased Engagement

Young volunteers bring fresh energy, new ideas, and help connect you with their networks.

🤝
Ongoing Support

We provide training resources and ongoing support to help you successfully engage youth volunteers.

💰
Completely Free

Our platform is free for community organizations. No fees, no hidden costs, just passionate volunteers.

Become a Partner

Meet Our Founder

Leading the movement to bridge the volunteer generation gap

Natalie Kasten - Founder
The Roots That Changed the World

Natalie Kasten

Miss Missouri Earth 2025, Author & Founder of Rooted in Change

As Miss Missouri Earth 2025, author of "The Roots That Changed the World," future elementary educator, model, dancer, and college student, I've witnessed firsthand the incredible impact young people can have when connected with meaningful volunteer opportunities.

Through my work in youth leadership, community service, and children's literature, I've seen a troubling trend: while community needs continue to grow, the volunteer base is rapidly aging. That's why I created Rooted in Change – to bridge this critical gap by connecting passionate young people with causes they care about.

My mission is simple: to ensure that the next generation of volunteers is engaged, empowered, and equipped to lead positive change in their communities. Whether through my children's book inspiring young readers or through direct community action, I believe in planting seeds of change that will grow for generations.

Connect with Me

Our Growing Impact

Together, we're creating measurable change in our communities through youth-led service

1,000+

Volunteer Hours Served

$24,800+

Economic Value Generated

50+

Independent Initiatives

1,000+

Meals Served

2,100

Care Packs Distributed

100+

Community Clean-up Hours