Youth programs in Utah have come a long way over the years, but how did the concept of volunteerism evolve over the years?

The 1700s

Early stories of volunteerism in America coincided with the development of urban centers in the colonies. Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer firehouse in Philadelphia in 1736. Anchored was volunteerism in community improvement and faith-based charity activities at this time. The first significant volunteer recruitment attempt was during the Revolutionary War. Ordinary citizens collected donations and boycotted British goods as the country recruited recruits to join the army.

The 1800s

In the 1800s, there was a spike in volunteerism in the United States. This grew to include humanitarian activities and the social reform movement in addition to religious causes. The religious revival movement of the 1820s, known as the Second Great Awakening, encouraged significant Americans to get involved in problems that were important to them. These organizations sparked the spirit of reform that would define American volunteerism as the country became more industrialized.

The 1900s

The labor movement provided a more excellent forum for Americans to express their views. Citizens now have more possibilities to volunteer and connect through advocacy organizations thanks to the formation of labor unions.

The economy collapsed in the 1930s, and the Great Depression began. As a result of the harsh circumstances, there was a greater demand for philanthropic activities, as many Americans suffered. As a result, one of the first national campaigns to organize volunteers for community-based groups began. Soup kitchens and homeless shelters were among the helping resources.

Todays Volunteerism: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah

Big Brothers Big Sisters Utah has served Utah for over 40 years. Their youth programs in Utah work to allow children to unlock their potential. Such youth programs in Utah help ensure a brighter future for every kid in the community. All children deserve to have the capacity to go on to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.