School’s out and that means it’s officially summer.

While that brings about wonderful thoughts of lazy days lying in the sun reading a book, or going to the beach, there are other options.

Students of all ages can find great ways to support their communities this summer.

For the young ones, take on a cause. Maybe you just love animals and can’t stand the thought of all those cats and dogs, kitties and puppies spending so much time in the shelter.

Why not host a bake sale or a lemonade stand and give the profits to the Kitsap Humane Society? That would be a great way to make a positive impact in the lives of stray animals.

For the older kids, maybe your passion is helping end homelessness. Students are welcome to volunteer at local food banks and help sort and shelve food items. There’s plenty of work and it’s a lesson that you’ll never forget, especially when you meet the well-deserving clients you are helping.

And there’s always a number of environmental concerns to get involved with. Stop off at the barn near the Clear Creek Trail and learn about what’s being done to enhance the environment in and around the creek.

Or get together a neighborhood clean-up and pick up litter along the streets near your home. Make sure to have an adult with you and wear bright clothes. Check in with Kitsap County to see if there are other things that need doing at your local park or rest area.

If helping out isn’t your thing, there are still many ways that you can spend the summer to benefit the future.

One thing would be to read. The Kitsap Regional Library has some great summer reading programs at the Port Orchard and Manchester branches. Go to your nearby library and ask about getting involved in a library reading program. Reading is a great way to expand your mind. And it will keep you in touch with learning while you’re away from school.

It is said that students lose up to two months of progress during the summer months simply because they aren’t challenging their minds. Students tend to forget or lose what they’ve already accomplished. By keeping involved in simple things like helping others and helping yourself through exercising your mind, you can combat that.

But, be sure to take some time to enjoy your summer. Because school will be back before you know it.