I have had the great pleasure to be part of the Year 9 Term 1 Community Service Week. Seventy-one students participated with their focus for the week to develop and understand how they can contribute to the community in which they study, live and play. To be of service to others.
The program began with a day on campus hostin The Salvation Army and JCP Youth. Staff from both organisations focused on the theme of Creating and Sustaining Change. Student activities were thought provoking and challenged our students to inspire to be the best version of themselves every day and have a positive impact in their community.
As a result of positive student feedback, this year our Service in the Community days expanded from two days to four days. Students assisted at 12 different locations around Launceston and George Town, lending a helping hand at the Benevolent Society, The Salvation Army, City Mission (four locations), St Vincent de Paul Society, Morton’s Place, Northen Suburbs Community Centres (two locations), Strike It Out Inc, and Fred French Nursing Home. Sorting donations, making sandwiches, soup and treats for food trucks, preparing a community luncheons, creating themed spaces (toy room, Leavers Room) putting together family and individual care packages. A highlight for many students was the conversations they had with volunteers, learning about the valuable work they do to support people in our community and working side by side with their friends as they made a difference.
An Agency Expo Day was also held on campus with first responder, emergency and community services organisations from Launceston showcasing what they do in our community. Organisations involved include St John Ambulance, State Emergency Service, Royal Flying Doctor Service, The Salvation Army, Strike It Out Inc, and St Vincent de Paul Society. Our students were able to spend time with each organisation and learn about what they do and volunteer opportunities.
Our students across the week of the program have been wonderful ambassadors in our community. I hope they come away from the program with a sense of pride and humility and seek to actively help others in the future.
Jamie Breden
Community Service Coordinator
