Over the past decade a new social phenomenon in the United Stateshas hit the world of civic engagement, a visible increase in the numbers of young volunteers.

Research has shown that the percentage of young volunteers increased from 19.49 to 21.58 percent during 2002 to 2005. Why has volunteering become so important to the younger generation?

After September 11^th many Americans felt a sense of powerlessness and disconnect in their communities. Volunteering and civic engagement are a way for individuals, especially young people to feel as though they are taking control of the happenings within their surroundings.

It is important to instill these ideals in children as young as elementary school so that they feel as though they are equal partners with adult volunteers.

The 2011 Make A Difference Day honorees were a prime example of young volunteers making a difference in their local and national communities.

Honorees included Nicole Muller, founder of Neighbors-4-Neighbors. Nicole started an annual food drive called Neighbors-4-Neighbors. On Make A Difference Day 2009, she collected and donated 2.5 tons of food to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. But the 17-year-old honor student knew she could do even better.

For Make A Difference Day 2010, Nicole went national. She and her helpers collected 7.7 tons of food in 43 states.

Addie and Delaney Kenney, started an “almost sleepover.” Participants must like hanging out in pajamas, dancing, eating ice cream and helping kids in need. Somehow, they had no trouble recruiting 36 girls to attend their movement’s signature event; admission price: a new pair of PJs for kids at a shelter. The guests made treats for seniors, crafted holiday decorations for hospital patients and collected $80 for charity.

Nicholas Cobb collects money to buy coats for kids at a local shelter for abused children. In 2009, he raised $3,400 to buy coats. In 2010, he raised $4,500. Nicholas’ nonprofit, Comfort and Joy, raises money to help the homeless each Make A Difference Day.

Civic engagement allows participants to explore an array of personal interests while making a difference in their community, as well. These young volunteers serve as an inspiration to all those interested in civic engagement, showing that one can make a difference regardless of his or her age. Small hands really can make a big difference!

You can find a way to make a big difference in your community on Make A Difference Day this Saturday, October 22, 2011. You can find a volunteer project or register your own project so volunteers can find it.

If you’re looking for a smaller way to help out, generationOn‘s Make Your Mark Week helps you find small acts that can add up to a big difference. You can find easy ways to help animals, the environment, homelessness, hunger, and literacy. Make Your Mark Week runs from October 16-22.

How are you making a difference during Make Your Mark Week or on Make A Difference Day? Let us know in the comments!