From Quora: My Answer to "What are some unique extracurriculars that I should do that will help me stand out on college applications?"

1. Think of a niche that isn’t being filled in your community - in other words, what do you wish existed? Figure out which ones can be done.
2. For example, you could start a business, especially a creative one - e.g. singing telegrams/messages, with optional delivery of candy, gifts, etc.
3. You could start a nonprofit “service project”, similar to the “service projects” Boy Scouts organize to make Eagle Scout. Rides home for people who need to work late, but can’t get themselves home safely? Maybe arrange a no-questions-asked ride service for fellow students who partied a little too hard at homecoming, the prom, etc. Service to the disabled and elderly? That doesn’t have to just be meal delivery, etc- it can be entertainment.
4. If you need money for your project, ask local merchants, city government, etc. to sponsor your project. Make a presentation explaining what you plan to do, why you need their help, and why it would benefit them to help you (good publicity, fewer drunk drivers, more happy elderly and disabled people, etc). If it’s for profit, but you still need starting capital (“Seed money”) see if people would like to invest in your venture . Make arrangements to pay them their money back, with interest.
5. Anything that shows you can solve problems creatively would work. Hope this helps!