Volunteering not only looks good on a college resume, it can be very rewarding as well, according to Sonita Redmond, director of United Way of Aiken County, Project VISION.

"Volunteering will give teens a sense of purpose, help them to grow in maturity and make them into better citizens," she said.

Here are some tips from Mrs. Redmond to get you started:

Reasons to volunteer: "It is important to volunteer because there are people in the world that are less fortunate than we are, and without our help their bad situation will become worse. In other cases there are people that are lonely because they have no family. Just a little of your time could brighten their day and give them hope for tomorrow."

How to be a good volunteer: "I think that a good volunteer is someone who has the heart to serve, combined with enthusiasm and energy. Skills are important but can be learned on the job."

How to choose a volunteer project: "The best way to choose an area of volunteer service is to follow your heart. If you are thinking of a career in medicine, you should consider volunteering at the hospital as a candy striper. If you love little kids, you should volunteer in the church nursery or an after- school program such as tutoring. Some people try several things before they find the right fit."

How to keep it going: "The key to continuing in volunteer service is to find the right fit to begin with and then give it enough time to see if you become comfortable.

The best part of being a volunteer is the sense of reward that you get from helping someone in need."

Lindsay Garrick is a junior at North Augusta High School