In our experience here at Street Care, we have found that by age 14, many teenagers have the maturity necessary to perform street outreach. However, anyone under the age of 18 should always have written consent from a parent or guardian to bring with them. 

A parent or guardian should review the content on the Street Care website with the teen to be sure they are prepared. Parents or guardians should know exactly what the teen’s plans are and where they are going. It is always an adult who is responsible for a teen doing outreach. 

Street Care cannot take responsibility for volunteers of any age. We recommend that teens provide outreach only during the day and in areas deemed safe by a parent or guardian. Your volunteering can provide the opportunity to build caring relationships and might provide the spark that helps get someone off the street. 

Guidelines for Teen Volunteers

• Fourteen is often the age when children show enough maturity to volunteer.

• Anyone under 18 should have their parent or guardian’s written permission.

• Minors should always keep guardians or parents posted on where they are going.