- Service
Students collaborate around the table to work on plans for their Social Impact Lab
As with many areas of learning, innovative educators are also increasingly recognizing the value of student-led service initiatives. Inspired by community engagement models developed by organizations such as UBC, Collingwood’s Social Impact Lab model combines learning about social issues with volunteerism, entrepreneurship, empathy, connection and innovation. Working in teams, students are provided with the opportunity to seek out potential partners and are given the space and coaching to build the relationship, develop a better understanding of the issue area and mutually define where they can make a meaningful impact. The five grant areas students identified this year are: the North Shore Special Olympics, Seniors Assistance, Climate Action, Donation Drives and Reconciliation.
“What I witness through the equity and community-centred processes in each Social Impact Lab is a profound commitment to justice and equity. These students, fully immersed in understanding and addressing social issues, have become powerful agents of change. They’ve shifted their focus from seeking external validation to internalizing their role as catalysts for positive change, no longer waiting to see examples of what could be from their peers or adults, but rather leading and joining movements themselves.”Bradley Jolliffe, Assistant Director of Student Life at Morven.
Kiersa S. works with her team to develop plans for the Special Olympics March Madness.
“The Special Olympics Lab brings value to both the North Shore Special Olympics charity and the Collingwood community. The Olympics provides athletes with intellectual disabilities a platform to showcase their athletic talents, feel celebrated, and connect with others in meaningful ways. Our initiates include sponsoring track and field and supporting events like the March Madness tournament, which we will host March 8–9. These events create spaces where athletes and volunteers can build lasting relationships while also raising awareness about the importance of inclusion in sports. For the Collingwood community, the lab has fostered a culture of compassion and engagement. Involving students through organizing, volunteering, and coaching has shown them the power of service and leadership. These experiences teach empathy and emphasize the importance of breaking barriers between individuals with and without disabilities. It’s been particularly impactful to see students gain a deeper understanding of inclusion through their participation and how these connections strengthen our school’s sense of community. This lab has created a positive cycle of support and awareness, benefiting everyone involved.”
Kiersa S, Gr. 12
This story is featured in the Winter 2025 edition of Bridge Magazine.