Two national in-home interview surveys conducted by the Gallup Organization and information from a national workshop conference attended by 70 teen volunteers from 28 states and 200 teachers and adult leaders indicate that about three-fifths of youth aged 12 to 17 volunteer an average of just over 3 hours a week. The most frequent volunteer activities are those sponsored by religious organizations, youth development groups, and schools; these are supplemented by informal volunteering on an individual basis. Teens most often become involved by being asked or because a friend or relative was involved or benefitted from the activity. The most active teen volunteers have had positive early childhood experiences relating to volunteering and involvement before age 11. They are likely to be active members of a church or synagogue and to have a value system that emphasizes helping others. School-sponsored community youth service programs are increasing. Students generally do not react negatively to school service requirements. Volunteering during the teen years tends to lead to volunteering in adulthood. Four graphs describe volunteer activities. (Contains 6 references.) (SLD)