This summer, step up and make a real difference. The Metropolitan Ministries Summer Teen Leader Program gives high school students the chance to roll up their sleeves and work alongside our staff on the front lines of serving Tampa Bay’s most vulnerable community members. It’s hands-on, it’s meaningful, and it looks great on a resume.
Participants earn Bright Futures scholarship service hours while gaining real nonprofit experience across departments including volunteer services, food services, special events, summer camp, thrift store, and more.
Application Deadlines:
- May 1, 2026 if you want to apply for June only or June + July terms.
- May 15, 2026 if you want to apply for July term only.
Important Information:
- Eligibility: Current high school students (at least 14 years old) may apply
- Time Frame: June, July, or both
- Commitment: 15-20 hours of service per week
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How old do I need to be to apply?
A: Applicants must be at least 14 years old and currently enrolled in high school. There is no upper age limit — rising college freshmen who are still in their senior year may also apply.
Q: Do I need parental or guardian consent to participate?
A: Yes. Because many of our participants are under 18, parental or guardian consent is required for all applicants. A parent/guardian signature will be collected as part of the online application process. Parents are encouraged to review the program commitment (15–20 hours/week) before signing.
Q: Can a parent or guardian attend the interview with me?
A: Parents are welcome to accompany their teen to the interview, though the interview itself is conducted with the applicant. We want to hear directly from the teen about their interests and goals.
Q: What kinds of volunteer areas can I be placed in?
A: Participants are matched to departments based on their skills and interests.
Examples include:
- Food Services – helping prepare and distribute meals to families in need
- Family Outreach Center – helping clients shop for food or clothing, assisting in the Employment Lab, and serving with dignity and compassion
- Clothing Warehouse / Thrift Store – sorting clothing, shoes, and furniture given to clients in need or sold to support the Ministry’s mission
- Environmental – maintaining a clean, welcoming campus inside and out so every person arriving for help feels safe
- Create Learning Center – playing, reading, and caring for children of the 100+ families living on campus
- Summer Camp – supporting youth programming and activities
- Administrative / Office Support – assisting staff with organizing, data entry, communications, and behind-the-scenes tasks that keep the Ministry running smoothly
Placement is not guaranteed in a specific area, but your preferences are taken into consideration during the matching process.
Q: Can I choose which months I volunteer?
A: Yes! You may apply for June only, July only, or both months. Just be sure to meet the corresponding application deadline — May 1 for June or June+July, and May 15 for July only.
Q: Is this a paid position?
A: The Summer Teen Leader Program is a volunteer service opportunity, not a paid internship. Participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to make a real impact in the Tampa Bay community.
Q: What happens after I submit my application?
A: Once your application is submitted, our team will carefully review each submission. A program coordinator will reach out to applicants who are a great fit to schedule a brief interview and learn more about their interests and skills. If selected, you’ll be matched to a department and notified of your placement before the program begins.
Q: Who should I contact if I have questions?
A: We’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to our Volunteer Services team at 813-209-1045 or by email at volunteer@metromin.org