The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) emphasizes scholarship, leadership, service, and character. A significant component of membership involves demonstrating a commitment to service through volunteer work. This guide provides everything you need to know about effectively tracking and documenting your volunteer hours for your NJHS application and ongoing contributions. We'll cover creating a robust volunteer hours form, what information to include, and best practices for maintaining accurate records.
Understanding the Importance of Accurate Record-Keeping
Submitting accurate and detailed volunteer hour records is crucial for your NJHS application and continued participation. Inconsistent or incomplete documentation can lead to misunderstandings and potentially impact your standing within the society. A well-maintained record not only demonstrates your commitment to service but also allows you to reflect on your contributions and identify areas for future involvement.
Essential Elements of a NJHS Volunteer Hours Form
Your volunteer hours form should be clear, concise, and comprehensive. Here's a breakdown of the essential elements to include:
1. Personal Information:
- Student Name: Clearly state the student's full name.
- Student ID Number: Include the student's unique identification number (if applicable).
- Grade Level: Specify the student's current grade.
2. Volunteer Activity Details:
- Organization Name: The name of the organization or group where you volunteered.
- Contact Person: Name and contact information (phone number or email address) of a supervisor or contact at the organization.
- Activity Description: A brief description of the volunteer work performed (e.g., "Assisted with food bank sorting," "Mentored elementary school students in math," "Participated in park cleanup"). Be specific and descriptive.
- Dates of Service: Clearly indicate the start and end dates of the volunteer activity (Month/Day/Year). For recurring activities, specify the frequency (e.g., "Every Saturday from October 28, 2023 to December 16, 2023").
- Total Hours: The total number of hours volunteered for each activity. Ensure accuracy; even fractional hours should be recorded.
- Location: Specify the location of the volunteer activity (e.g., address, city, state).
3. Verification:
- Supervisor Signature: This section requires the signature and printed name of the supervisor or responsible party who can verify the hours worked. This adds a layer of authenticity to your record.
- Supervisor Contact Information: Include the supervisor's phone number or email for verification purposes. This enables NJHS advisors to independently verify the hours if needed.
Sample Volunteer Hours Form
| Student Name: | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student ID: | |||||||
| Grade Level: | |||||||
| Organization Name | Contact Person | Activity Description | Dates of Service | Total Hours | Location | Supervisor Signature | Supervisor Contact |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
Best Practices for Maintaining Accurate Records
- Keep a Detailed Log: Maintain a running log of your volunteer hours throughout the year, including all the information mentioned above. This makes filling out the form easier and more accurate.
- Obtain Verification Promptly: Request signatures and contact information from supervisors as soon as possible after completing your volunteer work.
- Keep Copies: Make copies of your completed forms for your records.
- Consult with your NJHS Advisor: If you have any questions or uncertainties about the form or the volunteer hour requirements, contact your NJHS advisor for clarification.
By following these guidelines and using a well-structured volunteer hours form, you can ensure accurate record-keeping, showcasing your dedication to service and contributing meaningfully to your NJHS experience. Remember, honesty and precision are key to a successful application and continued participation in this prestigious organization.
