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  • Service Learning Opportunities

Service Learning Opportunities

teens volunteering

Earn Student Service Learning Hours

Student Service Learning (SSL) is a high school graduation requirement in the state of Maryland. Montgomery County Recreation offers students the opportunity to earn their mandated Student Service Learning (SSL) hours and learn new skills while having fun during the summer months. Focusing on leadership skills, each of these volunteer opportunities requires some training prior to earning SSL hours.


teens with hands in circle
teens with hands in circle
teens with hands in circle

Summer Leadership Challenge (SLC)

SLC helps develop leadership skills and gives teens an opportunity to practice independent problem-solving skills. The program includes a capstone project that participants coordinate and implement for the benefit of the local community. Participants earn up to 35 SSL hours and receive individual evaluations. Additional pathway specific SLC programs may be offered to include aquatics, adventure and sport coach and official. 

Junior Counselors

See what it takes to be a camp counselor by becoming a Junior Counselor! Teen-aged youth training to become recreation leaders will assist summer staff in planning and leading activities for campers such as games, sports and crafts. Increase your confidence while learning leadership, planning and communication skills. Registration is limited to one session only. All registrants must attend the mandatory Junior Counselor Orientation. Once the orientation has been completed, summer program placements will be made based on your skills, interests, session availability, and location preferences. Registrants make the full session commitment.