Teal Cares is a program organized by the PTSA at Aliso Niguel annually. It encourages students to spread the Teal Wolverine Spirit throughout the community by volunteering and gaining learning experiences in return.
The Parent Teacher Student Association organizes the program, sparking enthusiasm among students to embrace the school spirit and make a meaningful impact within the community. This initiative encourages students to complete 25 hours of volunteer work with local charitable organizations, offering a structured way to give back, while creating lifelong values centered around acts of service.
The program is open to all students on campus and provides flexibility in choosing volunteer opportunities that align with their interests. However, students are responsible for finding their open volunteer opportunities. Whether volunteering at community events, fundraisers, or the library, there is a wide array of activities available in the community. The program advisors suggest students find volunteer opportunities that match their interests to create memorable experiences and build skills for their future.
An Aliso Niguel PTSA advisor says, “Students can come together and they are able to make a difference at Aliso Niguel, regardless of what event you are volunteering for. The joy of giving back and having compassion for helping others will last a lifetime. All students are encouraged to take place and volunteer.”
Participating in the program is a straightforward process. Students log each volunteer session on a Teal Cares Volunteer Hours Log that can be found on the school’s website. Every entry must include a signature to confirm participation in each activity. Once students have logged their 25 hours, they submit their completed log to Aliso Niguel’s PTSA mailbox by April 15, 2024.
In return for their commitment, students will receive a certificate presented by the school’s principal as well as from the PTSA president at a school ceremony in order to recognize their contributions and dedication to the community.
Pragya Singhal (10) says, “I have always loved volunteering, and the Teal Cares program at school is a great way to put yourself out there. Volunteering can be really fun with friends. In the end, volunteering is rewarding since you benefit from the experience while helping others.”
Even though only 25 hours are required to complete the log, students are more than welcome to continue volunteering beyond the requirement. This program not only allows students to meet service goals but also opens doors to explore new interests and strengthen connections within their community.
Collecting volunteering hours can play a big part in the college application process as well. The majority of colleges show interest in students who have lots of volunteer hours on their application. It shows how devoted a student is to providing for the community, contributing to the potential involvement of the college they are applying to.
Regardless of the event students are volunteering for, every effort embodies the spirit of giving back and making a difference. Aliso Niguel has a positive legacy of service and compassion that will continue to benefit the community for years to come.
