Service Learning: A Teen Empathy Hack

Sure, we all want our students to be successful. But in the deepest wells of our hearts, we desire them to grow into caring, Christ-like humans.

And believe it or not, those are things that can truly be taught. 

Developing traits like empathy and gratitude can be transformative – shaping their character, relationships, and future leadership potential. And one of the most effective ways to nurture these qualities – servant leadership.

The research shows that service learning and servant leadership experience fosters empathy, caring, and gratitude:

• • In a 2024 case study about service learning, 84% of participants indicated they were more eager to serve others going forward, showing that experience serving fosters altruism and community engagement.

  • 79% of those participants demonstrated higher emotional intelligence, empathy, and interpersonal connection after spending time serving.

  • Research shows that individuals with envious and narcissistic tendencies are less likely to be grateful humans – but service experiences work against those qualities and improve gratitude.

  • According to the organization JustServe, teens gain self-confidence by helping others and seeing that they are important and needed in their communities.

When today’s youth take part in service learning, they experience how being part of something bigger than themselves is essential. With more social awareness and empathy, they build meaningful connections more easily. That means not only are they caring for others, but they are finding more happiness themselves as well. 

Often, serving gives teenagers additional perspective on their own lives and makes them more aware of things they may have previously taken for granted. This heightened appreciation often leads to a lasting sense of gratitude – which in itself improves mental health and wellbeing.

My organization has for many years run week-long service learning shifts at our Training Center. Teenagers often come in grudgingly, sluggish, disconnected, and with low self-esteem. But once they’ve spent a week collaborating on projects and watching how their actions and service can give life to other people and missions, they come alive. They are ecstatic, courageous, empathetic, and grateful for the opportunities they had to serve.

Want a more grateful teenager? 

Want a more caring teenager? 

Want your teenager to expand their concerns beyond themselves and their interests?

Get them involved. Find some volunteer opportunities. Consider ways to help those living in your community. 

Coaching servant leadership in today’s youth isn’t just about improving behavior or checking a “do good” box. It’s about shaping character. It helps them develop a sense of identity rooted in values, respect for others, and commitment to personal and collective growth. By fostering empathy and gratitude, service learning equips youth to become compassionate, Christ-like humans.

My organization’s service learning shifts are called PREP. Learn more or sign your teenager up here!