Youth Engagement in Voluntary Work for Community Development: A Systematic Literature Review of Motivations, Impacts, and Barriers

Abstract

Youth volunteerism plays a crucial role in fostering civic engagement and community development, yet factors influencing participation remain multifaceted. This study systematically reviews recent literature to identify motivators, barriers, and the broader impacts of youth volunteerism. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted using the PRISMA framework. Studies from 2015 to 2025 were retrieved from Scopus, ScienceDirect, and JSTOR using defined Boolean search terms related to youth, volunteerism, and community development. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles addressing youth motivations, impacts, and barriers. After screening 205 articles, 31 were selected through a two-phase review process. Data were manually extracted using a literature grid, and thematic synthesis was applied for analysis. Grey literature and prior SLRs were also considered to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant studies. Findings reveal that youth engagement is driven by intrinsic motivations such as altruism, empathy, and social responsibility, alongside extrinsic factors like skill development and career advancement. Institutional support, educational integration, and organizational flexibility significantly influence sustained participation. Key barriers include time constraints, lack of recognition, and limited program accessibility. Policymakers and practitioners should design inclusive, flexible, and skill-oriented volunteer programs integrated into educational and community structures to enhance youth engagement and contribute to long-term community resilience.