Toronto Catholic District School Board
Year End Report 2009-2010
May 31, 2010
Dear Ms. Ann Perron, Director of Education, Ms. Josephine DiGiovanni, Superintendent of
Curriculum & Accountability, Ms. Loretta Notten, Superintendent of Student Success, and Mr.
Gregory Rogers,
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Toronto Catholic District School Board
(TCDSB) for its support and partnership with Me to We Leadership programming during the
2009-2010 school year.
With speeches, workshops and student-led initiatives from September 2009 to May 2010, the
Take Action program, the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), and the Life in Action program
have engaged secondary and elementary school students across the Toronto Catholic District
School Board.
Me to We Leadership curriculum continues to engage young people with social justice issues
through experiential learning based on the Catholic virtues of service learning education. Youth
involved with Me to We Leadership programs learn the skills necessary to make a positive
difference in their schools and local, national and global communities.
A student ambassador from Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School told us that Me to We
Leadership programming showed her that “everybody can make a difference and we can start
at home by doing little things that can make a big change.”
Sentiments from students like Ranielle Ann and others featured throughout this report are
indicative of the value and worth of the partnership between Me to We and the TCDSB for
young people.
It is with great pleasure that we share with you stories of the amazing successes of the Take
Action program, Life in Action program and YPI program in elementary and secondary schools
across the TCDSB.
Once again, we would like to sincerely thank the Toronto Catholic District School Board for their
support of our programs.
Sincerely,
Marc Kielburger
Executive Director
Me to We
Renée Hodgkinson
Executive Director of Me to We Leadership
Me to We
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Program Overview
Take Action is an innovative and dynamic youth leadership training program that engages
students in meaningful local and global citizenship. Through interactive workshops, students
gain the leadership skills, knowledge and inspiration needed to positively engage their peers as
active members of their school, community and world. Initiated in 2002 by Me to We, a world
leader in empowering youth with leadership education, inspiration and action tools, Take
Action provides hands-on, individually tailored training to over 200 schools in 12 major school
boards and school districts across Canada.
Take Action training:
Promotes social advocacy as a means to greater learning as well as a mechanism to
promote academic and personal development.
Instills a sense of global citizenship in students and encourages them to make a
difference in the world through action.
Complements Catholic virtues through service learning and volunteerism.
Develops leadership skills and equips students with methods for taking action in their
communities.
Provides passionate, dedicated and energetic facilitators who are committed to being
positive role models for youth and maintaining ongoing support for students.
Delivers peer-based and action-oriented training, curriculum and resources.
Instills in all the belief that youth have the power to positively impact the world.
Program Components
Take Action student ambassadors participate in three full-day workshops that focus on teaching
leadership skills and help students take action in their schools and communities.
Workshop One: Issue
Students initiated meaningful discussions about local and global issues they were
passionate about.
Teambuilding and leadership activities developed student leadership skills.
Action Planning: students worked together to take action in their schools or
communities on issues they wanted to positively change
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Workshop Two: Skills
Students were trained in public speaking, active listening, assertive communication and
leadership.
Skill-based Action Planning: students thought of ways they could apply their passions
and skills toward an action plan.
Workshop Three: Action
Facilitators participated in an event organized by students.
Students reviewed and practiced the skills they developed during the first two
workshops.
Students celebrated and reflected on their achievements and successes.
Provided feedback and discussed ways to move forward.
Between workshops, Take Action student ambassadors work collaboratively to implement the
action plans in both their school and communities, putting their new skills and knowledge into
practice. In addition, all participating schools were offered a free school-wide inspirational
speech by the Take Action facilitators.
Facilitators provide year-round support to students and educators through e-mail and
telephone, and are available to answer any questions or provide insight and clarification on
curriculum material.
Take Action coordinator, Simona Ramkisson, ensures that every effort is made to schedule
workshops and speeches that fit within school timetables and calendars.
Throughout the school year, Take Action facilitators collect feedback from each school, allowing
students to report their success stories and provide personal assessment reflections on their
knowledge and leadership skill development over the course of the year.
“I learned about how I can make a difference globally by acting locally. I also learned about how
I can start acting.”
- Julian Oliveira, Grade 10, Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
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Jameson Voisin
Interesting Fact: Hopes to hang-glide over Rio De Janeiro one day.
Jameson’s passion for working with youth to promote positive
change stems from six years being part of a leadership camp
focused on promoting social justice. Jameson also had the
opportunity of traveling to the small town of Consuelo in the
Dominican Republic where he briefly lived with a family when in
grade 11. These past experiences have helped Jameson develop
a strong passion for youth activism and social awareness.
While growing up in Ottawa, Jameson was asked to attend a
speech on youth empowerment. Little did he know that while
there he would hear Craig Kielburger speak firsthand about the power and influence of children
– a speech that would forever change his outlook on the world. Graduating with a degree in
Political Science and History from St. Francis Xavier University, Jameson decided to join the Me
to We team.
Amy Forristal
Interesting Fact: Amy is an avid member of Toronto’s Drum/Dance culture.
Amy is a vibrant and experienced facilitator who uses her
passion and creative energy to make social change come
alive. Graduating from York University with an honours
degree in criminology and psychology, she has proven
herself a strong and innovative leader who is dedicated to
inspiring and empowering youth to generate positive
social change within their local and global communities.
Over the past five years Amy has been actively involved
with youth-driven organizations working in and around the Toronto school system. Beginning
with a branch of LOVE (Leave Out Violence) at York, Amy helped to develop an emerging charity
called UNITY (Urban Non-violent Initiatives Through Youth) as a coordinator, motivational
speaker and program designer. After university she went on to mediate restorative justice
circles with Peacebuilders International which offers an alternative to juvenile correctional
facilities.
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Participating Schools
TCDSB schools that participated in the Take Action program:
Brebeuf College School
Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
Cardinal Newman Catholic High School
Blessed Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
Loretta Abbey Catholic Secondary School
Francis Lieberman Catholic High School
St. Joseph Morrow Park Catholic Secondary School
Bishop Marrocco Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
Father Henry Carr Catholic Secondary School
Madonna Catholic Secondary School
Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School
St. Mary’s Catholic Secondary School
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Brebeuf College School
Me to We’s Take Action program worked with
students involved in a variety of Brebeuf’s
extra-curricular clubs and athletic teams,
including the youth ministry, student council,
and rugby and hockey teams. Over the course
of three workshops, participants from Brebeuf
had the opportunity to learn about a variety of
issues including stereotyping, world hunger
and the global distribution of wealth. In
addition to the time spent developing an
understanding of both local and global issues,
Brebeuf students engage in an energetic
the Brebeuf students had the opportunity to
team-building exercise.
further develop vital leadership skills such as
communication, trust, teamwork and public speaking. Participants especially enjoyed constructing their
own speeches similar to Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream” speech. Not only did students present
speeches about social justice issues they were passionate about, they used other creative forms of
expression including spoken word, poetry, raps and songs to convey their messages.
As a result of the Take Action program, Brebeuf students developed self-confidence and leadership skills
which they incorporated into their school clubs and action plans. For example, following the devastating
earthquake in Haiti, Brebeuf students helped organize a Haiti Milk Bag initiative in which empty milk bags
were collected and put towards creating mattresses for earthquake victims.
The students also set up a booth to collect money outside the school to fundraise for the Haiti initiative.
The experience was humbling and the students said they felt a great deal of empathy for those who must
ask for donations on a daily basis for their survival.
This year’s Brebeuf Take Action ambassadors have made great strides within their school and the global
community.
“I have the power to lead with my actions, not just my words.”
-Matthew Tonello, Grade 10, Brebeuf College School
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Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
It’s always extremely delightful to see two
different Take Action schools unite and work
together to accomplish a common goal.
Members of Notre Dame teamed up with Neil
McNeil Secondary School to host “Writer’s Eve”,
a night of art and expression. The event was so
successful, it even caught the attention of
Roger’s Media, which broadcasted segments of
the evening featuring drawing, painting, drama,
poetry and music.
Through various activities during the Take
Action workshops, such as communication and
action planning exercises, the group was
prepared with the necessary skills needed to
Notre Dame and Neil McNeil Take Action ambassadors
unite for the “Writer’s Eve” event!
organize the successful “Writer’s Eve” event. Through the workshops, students built trust and
cultivated friendly relationships. During action planning sessions, students divided roles and
responsibilities and executed their event with ease. With a positive attitude, the Notre Dame Take
Action ambassadors proved that small actions can make a large difference. In addition, they were
able to inspire the grade nine students in their school to participate in the event.
On April 16 2010, educator Iole Bada from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School gave a generous
donation of over $5,000 to Free The Children’s alternative income program. Accompanying the
cheque presentation, Iole Bada and her Notre Dame Take Action ambassadors organized the Toronto
Youth Form Theater to come and perform. Through spoken word and drama, the presentation raised
awareness around local issues like street violence, guns, drugs, immigration and low-income living.
The next action plan is already underway as students have started discussing the potential for a
ravine-boardwalk cleanup barbeque during the start of next year.
“I had so much fun in these meetings we spent together. I definitely learned a lot and will take the skills I
learned and use them in my everyday life.”
-
Michelle Pellejera, Grade 9, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
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Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
Not only did Neil McNeil team up with Notre
Dame Catholic Secondary School to help
support and contribute to the “Writer’s Eve” art
fundraiser, but this small eco-friendly social
justice group also took action in their own
school. With the support of Me to We
facilitators and the environmental club, they
helped organize the Civics Day fundraiser on
Earth Day. Take Action ambassadors also
initiated a recycling program to promote the
use of recyclable cardboard rather than
styrofoam in the cafeteria.
Take Action ambassadors from Neil McNeil learn about
social justice by listening to Nelson Mandela’s 1994
Inaugural Speech during the Take Action workshop.
With a burning passion for social justice and
environmental issues, Take Action ambassadors
discussed many local and global issues during
the Take Action workshops. The group also learned about different leadership qualities through an
activity called “Legends and Legacies,” where participants examined leaders throughout history and
how their qualities and actions contributed to their legacies. Students also discovered their own
leadership attributes, strengths, and styles.
On April 16, 2010, Neil McNeil Take Action ambassadors helped organized “Think Fast”, a 24-hour
event supported by the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace, which
students run in their schools across Toronto in order to raise awareness around the issues of
hunger and famine. In addition to famine, the event focused on different global and local issues
with entertainment and informative presentations. Neil McNeil students demonstrated great
commitment and passion in organizing the event. Despite the challenges they faced, such as
balancing time with other school clubs, the Take Action ambassadors at Neil McNeil accomplished
their goal and put together an outstanding event.
“I would recommend Take Action to my peers because it really opens your eyes to a lot of different world
issues and how we can face them, not only by ourselves but as a team.”
-
Nebyu Taddese, Grade 10 ,Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
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Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
Cardinal Newman Take Action ambassadors discussing
different local and global issues while participating in a
fun activity.
With the support of Me to We, this dedicated group of students realized their own potential in
making a difference, learned about different local and global issues, and found tangible ways to get
involved.
Students like Katrina Leai and Ranielle Ann found themselves highly motivated to get involved.
Joining their school’s “Think Fast” club they learned about issues faced by Mexican immigrants, food
sovereignty and cacao farmers who are forced into settlements as their land was taken over by
industrial companies for oil. Their campaign to raise awareness around these issues included slide
shows, announcements, posters, presentations and a school-wide petition to the Prime Minister.
Each person had to raise a minimum of $25 to participate in the event. The students from Cardinal
Newman used their creativity and dedication to raise awareness in a way that people would
remember.
“The [workshop] experience has broadened my views on social issues in general. Before this I would not
have pictured myself doing any of this stuff, but now I’m talking to people about issues and trying to get
people involved as well. All and all, it changed and inspired me to want to do more.”
-
Katrina Leai, Grade 10, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
Nebyu Taddese, Grade 10 ,Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
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Blessed Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
Through the Take Action program, students
from Blessed Mother Teresa realized their own
power as leaders to make a difference in their
own communities. Their dedication this year
proved that they can inspire and motivate
others to create positive change.
After taking a deeper look at social stereotypes
and discussing issues in their local community
during the first workshop, students felt
confident and open to sharing ideas and
thoughts. The second workshop focused on
identifying students’ own personal leadership
styles and also the qualities, legends and
legacies of the world’s greatest leaders. This
equipped the Take Action ambassadors with the
tools to recognize their own leadership qualities
and the type of leaders they aspire to become.
Take Action ambassador from Blessed Mother
Teresa speaks about some of the issues in her
community in front of the group.
Through action planning activities in the workshops, students learned how to combine their talents
and abilities with an issue they are passionate about. The students of Blessed Mother Teresa
decided that they wanted to take action by setting up a memorial for a recent teacher from their
school named Mr. Destine who passed away recently. Students utilized their love for public
speaking and artistic talents to honour a well respected mentor from their school and raise
awareness around the importance of caring for others.
One of the more extraordinary moments came in the third workshop when the group participated
in an activity which encouraged them to begin to look at ways of overcoming personal insecurities.
Me to We facilitators were surprised to see that so many of the youth had the courage to step out
of their comfort zones and overcome their insecurities. This extraordinary moment demonstrated
how far the Take Action ambassadors had come in developing as individuals throughout the year.
“I will begin to take part in school activities. I need to take the lead and show who I really am. I stay back
and be quiet. But it is time to put forth my talents and be a leader.”
- Kion Flatts, Grade 9, Blessed Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
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Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
This group of creative youth began the Take
Action program with great excitement. From
beginning to end, the group continued to
reach out, get involved, research issues and
take positive action. Always looking for ways
to get involved, the group stayed longer after
workshops and discussed ways to tackle issues
that they truly cared about. In addition, they
attended events hosted by Me to We on the
weekends, signed up to volunteer for Free The
Children’s annual We Day event and looked for
ways to attend Me to We’s Take Action
Academy, a social justice summer camp.
Katrina Jose, Alison Pacia and Holly Fisher bust a move to
the Take Action groove.
Ignited by discussions of different global issues, this group returned to the second workshop with
research and statistics on different social issues such as poverty and child labour. By the third workshop,
the group had united and had worked together in painting two large school murals to raise awareness
about poverty and child labour. One of the murals was hung up in their school, and the other will soon
be placed on display. Take Action ambassadors hope to paint a third mural to raise awareness around
the environment in the future.
The Take Action ambassadors demonstrated great leadership this year and represent strong role models
for their school. As a highly open and vocal group, the participants often stayed back and discussed how
the Take Action program impacted their lives. One of the students, John Morales, spoke about how
some of the activities are now “engraved” into his mind.
Full of creativity and zest, these youth were empowered with the courage to get involved and make the
first steps of change happen within their own community. The momentum initiated by this group will
sure open opportunities to engage and inspire other students in the future.
“I learned how to make a difference and change in the lives around me. The workshop helped me, and
made me happier. It combined amazing metaphors with great life lessons ...Life experience, amazing
comparisons and fun games. The workshop is great the way it is, and could not be better.”
- Jesse Laulor, Grade 10, Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
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Pope Jean Paul II Secondary School
The Take Action group at Pope John Paul II has
proven that simple actions can make a huge
difference. Through the Take Action program,
students embraced character development
and learned life skills through various
introspective activities.
Kicking this year’s Take Action program off
with ice breakers and team builders, the group
was challenged to work together, pushing
personal boundaries while having to trust and
depend on each other. Other introspective
activities helped students to reflect on some of
the group’s shared values and personal experiences.
Take Action ambassadors reach for their
dreams.
During the second and third workshops, students acquired knowledge about different issues going on in
the world. They also discussed how these issues are interconnected and developed some of the skills
needed to create positive change. During an activity called “Knot Rope”, students worked together to
untie a series of knots. This proved to be a challenging task, but the message became quite clear in the
end. The activity demonstrated how world issues are connected and in order to untie the knots in the
world, everyone must contribute to find the ultimate solution.
During the final workshop, members were congratulated on their personal accomplishments throughout
the program. Through the Take Action program, students succeeded in manifesting their potential as
leaders. By the end of the program, it was clear that the Take Action ambassadors had gained the
confidence and skills to get involved. The group displayed remarkable internal transformation and
growth throughout the three workshops.
“One action I will take following the workshop is not being embarrassed and not being afraid of getting
judged and be confident and participate in activities such as International Nite, Clubs and athletics.”
- Thanish Mehanathan, Grade 11, Pope John Paul II Secondary School
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Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
The students at Loretto Abbey C.S.S are great
examples of the trailblazers leading this
generation of youth to make a difference.
Characterized by their fun and humorous
approach, the group constantly addressed social
change and community involvement through
creative means. With support and
encouragement from educators Tania Carducci
and Davis Fenech, this school truly embodied
the Me to We philosophy.
During the three Take Action workshops,
facilitators observed the group grow and unite
through activities that helped them develop
effective listening and communication skills.
Take Action group after receiving their certificates of
acknowledgement and t-shirts for being part of the
program.
Through various leadership activities, students
gained a heightened awareness of their own
personal power and privilege in society. Students also discovered their own ability to impact change
in their local and global communities.
During the third workshop, Me to We facilitators encouraged the group to enhance their public
speaking abilities. The group developed both verbal and non-verbal communication skills and each
student was then given the opportunity to practice writing and to deliver a powerful speech on an
important social issue.
Empowered with a boost in confidence, Alison Ferguson, Pearl Almeida and Zoe Melo ran for
student government with the support and promotion of their Take Action group. Two of these girls
now hold the positions of Student Secretary and Sports Representative. Having had the leadership
training from Take Action workshops, these student are sure to succeed in their new roles, while
also incorporating the importance of social justice issues in their respective clubs.
“I won for secretary and Alison won for sports rep! It was such a great experience to be running! It was a
really fun week. I think the public speaking we did in the workshops really helped me, so thank you!”
-Zoe Melo, Grade 9, Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
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Francis Libermann Catholic Secondary School
The Take Action program at Francis Libermann
Catholic Secondary School helped the
participants realize the importance of standing
up for what they believe in. Students also
discovered the ability they possess to create
an environment that allows their peers to
express themselves as individuals.
Students from Francis Libermann were
encouraged to learn more about their peers
and grow closer as a team. Through various
activities, students learned about the issues in
their community, as well as barriers and
obstacles that exist in their own lives.
Students also developed self confidence, trust
and leadership skills to overcome these
move outline)
Student takes the time to share his personal
story and the importance of being inclusive in one of the
leadership activities.
obstacles. Students learned the power of their actions and the importance of individuality and
creativity in making positive social change. The workshop helped students create a shift in attitudes
and perspectives, followed by skill-building and action planning activities.
Me to We facilitators were pleased to hear how students from Francis Libermann had been leading
by example. The youth firmly believed that promoting school spirit could be both fun and
informative. The Take Action ambassadors also organized several events including a litter-less lunch
day and 30-hour famine event to raise awareness about environmental issues and world hunger.
Through the Take Action program, participants continue to serve as outstanding role models for
their peers and other individuals within the greater Francis Libermann community.
“I have learned that life is full of layers - layers of experience, and different situations. We should do our
best to learn everyone’s story and then fully understand just who they are as an individual.”
-Michael Nyarkoh, Grade 10, Francis Libermann Catholic Secondary School
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St. Joesph’s Morrow Park Catholic Secondary School
The Take Action program at St. Joseph’s
Morrow Park Catholic Secondary School
proved to be yet another great success. Over
the course of three workshops, students from
St. Joseph’s Morrow Park had the opportunity
to develop their leadership skills through
various teambuilding exercises and
discussions about local and global issues.
The first workshop focused on raising
awareness of local and global issues. One
nsert picture this size (then remove outline)
particular activity called “World Map” gave
The girls of St. Joseph’s Morrow Park express their
the participants a visual understanding of the
creativity, passion and energy during the Take Action
world’s distribution of wealth, food
workshops.
consumption and population.
Through passionate dialogue, students
discussed the significance of their role within the global community and how their daily actions could
make a global impact.
During the Take Action workshops, students developed team work and leadership skills which they were
able to put into action. After discussing issues they were passionate about in the workshops, students
decided to take action on the issue of homelessness in Toronto. They decided to run a homelessness
awareness campaign. Students utilized the leadership skills they learned at the Take Action workshops to
accomplish their action plan and their greatest success was a coin drive which raised money for meals for
homeless Torontonians.
“These workshops have made me believe I have the power to make a positive change by finding unique
ways to make people understand the need for change.”
-Emma Dehez ,Grade 10, St. Joesph’s Morrow Park Catholic Secondary School
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Take Action Student Ambassador Profile
Outstanding student involved with the Take Action Program
Name: Radiyah Chowdhury
Grade: 11
School: Blessed Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
Radiyah has proven herself to be a true leader.
This strong, modest and independent student
attributes a great deal of her inspiration and
leadership qualities to both Me to We and her
family. Radiyah and her mother have taken part
in the cancer walk “Relay for Life” since she was
10 years old. She gains inspiration from her
father and courage from her grandfather.
Radiyah is extremely active in supporting Free
The Children and Me to We initiatives and has
Outstanding Take Action ambassador Radiyah
been involved in numerous programs. She has
Chowdhury (right).
volunteered for events like We Day, has joined
the Me to We Mobilizer team and has participated in the GO Local, Junior Journalist, and Take Action
programs. She dreams of one day going on a volunteer trip and attending the annual Take Action
Academy. She even manages to make time every Saturday to volunteer at the Muslim Welfare Centre
in Scarborough. For the past two years, Radiyah has been the visionary and driving force behind her
school’s social justice club. She showed great passion and support when attending the “Walk Against
Male Violence” on May 20, even sharing a poem she wrote. It has been a great privilege to be able to
get to know and work with outstanding young people like Radiyah. Her social involvement in her
school, the community, her family and Me to We has earned her acknowledgement and respect as one
of the most remarkable students in the Toronto Catholic District School Board.
“I find that one of the greatest feelings to ever have is after you've done something nice for
someone, and only you and the person you've helped know about it. The feeling you get after
you've exchanged a private smile, and you know that you've done something sincere. You didn't do
it because you wanted recognition or fame, but because you wanted to reaffirm the fact that even
the smallest of things can brighten not only someone else's day, but your own, as well.”
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Take Action Educator Profile
Outstanding Educator involved with the Take Action program
Name: Ninette D’Souza
School: Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
This outstanding teacher has mentored the
Take Action program in her school for the
past five years. Serving as one of the
Chaplaincy team leaders, Ninette D’Souza
views her position at Cardinal Newman
Catholic Secondary School as one that
allows her to integrate the Me to We
philosophy and the Take Action program
into different initiatives within the school.
While teaching Career Studies, Religion and
Business, she strives to enable youth to put
their faith into action through social justice
and service.
Outside of school, Ninette is working to
educate herself further by getting her
Chaplaincy Team Lead Ninette D’Souza.
Masters in Religious Education and
becoming an active member of a Catholic organization called Development and Peace. At school,
she encourages the students to become involved in various fundraising and awareness raising
events and campaigns.
In past years, Ninette has lead social justice trips to the Scalabrini Mission in Tijuana, Mexico. This
year, Ninette took the initiative to organize an outing for the Take Action students from Cardinal
Newman, Notre Dame and Neil McNeil to the Scarboro Mission for an afternoon. This unique
Mission exposes how different religions interconnect and come together in respect to the “Golden
Rules”, “Universal Light” and the environment. Her action strived to solidify the connections
between service, justice, education and leadership while broadening the youth’s spectrum of
knowledge, experience and faith.
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Student Testimonials
Students from the TCDSB talk about the impact of the Take Action program:
“I think this workshop is fun, educational and very inspiring. This workshop is fantastic and
doesn’t need any changes.”
- Delina Marchese, Grade 8, Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School
“From today’s workshop I learned that once you build your inner strength and thinking about
your attitude towards others and/or the environment, you can tackle anything.”
- Alison-Mae Garcia, Grade 9, Notre Dame Catholic School
“I learned that we as future leaders are capable of making a change in people’s lives by doing
simple things and thinking of others.”
- Terasina Yu, Grade 9, Notre Dame Catholic School
“You guys are so much fun. I thought it would be boring, but you guys proved me wrong and I
had a blast! Thanks guys!”
- Sabrina Ing, Grade 9, Notre Dame Catholic School
“I learned that all people have their own beliefs, and to put that all aside, for we are all really
similar.”
- Alberto Romzi, Grade 10, Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
“This experience has been a true eye opener on how much of an impact we can have on the
student body. It truly is remarkable.”
- Nebyu Taddese, Grade 10, Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
“I learned about how I can make a difference globally by acting locally. I also learned about
how I can start acting.”
- Julian Oliveira, Grade 10, Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
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“Following the workshop I will now spread the word in my own school and show the goodness
of others.”
- Alberto Romzi, Grade 11, Neil McNeil Catholic Secondary School
“I would recommend this program to other students because it really informs you about the
world. It gets you outside of your head and gives you insight on how other people live.”
- Katrina Leai, Grade 10, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
“Everybody can make a difference and we can start at home by doing little things that make a
big change.”
- Ranielle Ann, Grade 10, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
“I would like to say that this workshop helped me to become a leader. This experience is my
first step into becoming a legit/extraordinary leader. And not that shy guy.”
- John Morales, Grade 10, Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
“I learned that people sometimes need a boost to do something, and we can give them that
boost by example.”
- Matthew Zaragoza, Grade 10, Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
“I learned that even though I have not realized it, I have affected other people’s lives either
positively or negatively. I will also do my best to stop negatively labeling others.”
- Katrina Jose, Grade 10, Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
“An action I will take after these workshops will be to have courage and stand up to
someone when it is needed to help a person who it in trouble.”
- Alison Pacia, Grade 10, Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School
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“You need to find the people you can trust and talk to. I learned everyone has layers around
them and how every individual can be hurt emotionally. You need to stand up and be
confident.”
- Thanish Mchanathan, Grade 11, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“We need to take chances in order for us to do what feels right. All experiences teach
something valuable. Stay determined even though it’s a bad experience.”
- Justin Guiyab, Grade 11, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“It isn’t good to hide yourself under something you’re not. When you are not your true self,
over time you forget who you really are. When you forget who you are, it is hard to find the
true you. Following the workshop I will not be a person who hides behind who I am not, and
try to break free from those layers.”
- Sarah Mohamed, Grade 11, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“I learned to stop judging myself, be more comfortable and confident with myself and peel off
the layers that hold me back. I also learned to work as a team to solve the problems that
we’ve all caused by setting a goal for myself so I can make a change.”
- Rhea D’Souza, Grade 11, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“We can make it better by listening, learning from each other, and respecting each other.”
- Jeffrey DaSilva, Grade 10, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“Respect others if you want to be respected.”
- Jon Gutierrez, Grade 10, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“I learned a lot about other people’s problems and that I can relate to them somehow. Also I
am not the only one going through certain things.”
- Shaquira Steele, Grade 9, Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
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“I’ve learned how to better deal with life problems and stay true to yourself, no matter what...
and get my voice heard around the school.”
- Michelle Munawa, Grade 9, Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
“One action I plan on taking is to be more open to the world and spread the word. Life is
unfair sometimes so we have to be more confident and comfortable with ourselves. There are
layers that block us from succeeding at things we want to do.”
- Kate Reyes, Grade 9, Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School
“I think more about where my clothes came from before I buy them.”
- Sara Maltese, Grade 9, Lorretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
“One thing I liked from today’s workshop is the acronyms SPEV and GEEP which are acronyms
describing vocal and physical traits that we should have and use during public speaking.”
- Justine Gajka, Grade 9, Lorretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
“Public speaking is something I should continue doing. I’m not the most talkative person but I
feel pretty comfortable after I get into it a bit.”
- Abigail Dela Cruz, Grade 9, Abbey Catholic Secondary School
“I learned to be respectful, don’t be judgmental (myself), and that you have to look at
yourself before you look at others.”
-Nathaniel Tan, Grade 10, Bishop Marrocco Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
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Educator Testimonials
Educators from the TCDSB talk about the impact Take Action has had on their students:
“I would highly recommend the Take Action program for next year because it has brought the
LEADER out of each student who participated. I have noticed the positive impact as it
empowered my grade 9 students to feel confident in raising awareness for local and global
issues that are important to them.”
-Tania Carducci, Loretto Abbey
“The more years I am involved with this program, the more I am convinced of its importance
alongside the other initiatives of social justice. What I have been trying to do is connect it
more tangibly to ideas from our Catholic faith regarding social justice.”
-Ninette D’Souza, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
“The Take Action program is an excellent way to promote leadership, service and social
justice to young potential leaders who otherwise may gain a very different idea of leadership,
or whose leadership potential would remain untapped. It is done in an interactive and fun
manner which is ‘adolescent-friendly’ and having young facilitators is really powerful. My
hope is that the program continues at Cardinal Newman and the TCDSB and possibly expands
to more schools. It is my goal that this program can become more fully integrated in engaging
young people to connecting their Catholic faith with the call to justice and service, namely
putting their faith into action.”
-Ninette D’Souza, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
“This brought our students closer. They have been meeting more than once a week after
school. The excitement was palpable in getting this off the ground.”
-David Fenech, Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School
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“The students learned how unaware many people are about the problems facing people
around the world…and the ability to move beyond.”
-Kimberley D’Souza, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“In regards to leadership, the Take Action program instills passion and promotes advocacy.
This program motivated and encouraged several of our students to run for Student Council
and also increased their desire to get involved in charitable organizations within the school
community.”
-Tania Carducci, Loretto Abbey
“It’s my fourth year participating in the Take Action program and it keeps getting better!”
-Kimberley D’Souza, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“The students loved the experience as they learned facts about poverty around the world.
This has given them more confidence and a sense of community.”
-Filomena Moral, Neil McNeil High School
“Great program and workshop. The students enjoyed it and they certainly learned a lot.”
-Iole Bada, Notre Dame High School
“The students realized the importance of working together to achieve common goals.”
-Kimberley D’Souza, Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School
“I think the Take Action program will help them realize that leadership and participation is
not only about padding their resume, but actually making a difference especially to those
most in need.”
-Ninette D’Souza, Cardinal Newman Catholic Secondary School
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TCDSB Report
TCDSB Report
2009–2010
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On behalf of the Life in Action ambassadors, Life
in Action schools, the Life in Action program
facilitators, and Free The Children, we would like
to extend our most sincere and heartfelt
gratitude to the Toronto Catholic District School
Board. Thanks to their active partnership and
participation this year, over 250 TCDSB
elementary school students have learned the
benefits of healthy eating, physical exercise and
giving back to the world around them. Together
we are empowering a generation of young
people to change themselves and the world
through daily healthy choices. Thank you for
making this possible.
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Life in Action Ambassadors of St. John say hello and show off their new t-shirts
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Program Summary
The Life in Action program inspires, educates and empowers youth across North America
to make positive changes in their lives through healthy eating, active lifestyles and
socially responsible actions. A Free The Children initiative, this unique approach
connects young people’s everyday decisions with their ability to have a positive impact on
the lives of their peers living in marginalized communities around the world.
Led by our experienced and energetic facilitators, Life in Action focuses on three pillars of
success:
“Eat” Educates youth about the importance of making healthy dietary
choices
“Play” Explores the benefits and fun of staying active and energized
“Care” Shows youth how they can take on leadership roles within their
schools and communities to improve the lives of their peers around the world
Using Free The Children’s tried-and-true method of youth engagement through education,
inspiration and leadership training, Life in Action is creating a shift in how schools and
youth approach the issues of childhood obesity in North America and malnutrition around
the world.
The Life in Action program currently works in partnership with 120 schools within 18 North
American school boards. This past year, to the program reached over 60,000 students,
trained 3,600 student ambassadors and worked in partnership with over 200 educators
who continue to guide students in their endeavours. Educators assist students in creating
action plans to spread the message of healthy, active living and social responsibility to
their schools and communities.
Students are action planning for a healthy future at St. Dunstan
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Program Model
Life in Action takes a unique approach to food
and nutrition education. Our youth-driven
program, led by a team of experienced and
energetic facilitators, provides young people
with an eye-opening experience that equips
them with the knowledge to make healthy
choices throughout their lives.
The program begins with an interactive
speech, full of interesting facts and personal
stories, delivered to a school’s student body.
Selected students are then offered training as
Life in Action ambassadors, who will spread
the message of healthy living to the rest of
their school.
Additional resources are provided to motivate
students in their efforts: classroom curriculum,
T-shirts, posters, pedometers and Take
Action! books. It is through the actions of the
ambassadors that the Life in Action program
truly impacts the world.
Program Components
Number
Participating TCDSB schools
9
Youth spoken to
2997
Ambassadors trained
225
Speeches delivered
9
Workshops conducted
18
Take Action! books
and curriculum distributed
270
Life in Action T-shirts
distributed
270
Pedometers distributed
225
Ambassadors excitedly prepare to start an outdoor activity at St. Vincent de Paul
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Adopt a Village Initiatives
Free The Children seeks to free children from poverty and exploitation and free young people
from the notion that they are powerless to effect positive change in the world. To make this
happen at an international level, we’ve set in place our innovative Adopt a Village model.
Through this multi-faceted approach to development, children and their families are truly
empowered to break out of poverty.
During the 2009-2010 school year, Life in Action ambassadors in the TCDSB embraced our third
pillar, Care, through their actions to increase awareness, fundraise and become more socially
aware of issues in our world. This year, TCDSB Life in Action ambassadors were given the
opportunity to support a brand new Adopt a Village initiative called Plate by Plate. As Free The
Children’s main focus is education around the world and breaking down the obstacles towards it,
like access to clean water and finding other ways for families to make money, we are excited to
launch an entirely new program this year, that is exclusive, for all of our Life in Action schools.
Through the Plate by Plate program, schools have fundraised to provide children with a healthy
lunch, which is important because when lunch is available at Free The Children schools there is
a 100% attendance rate.
Life in Action ambassadors have truly made an incredible impact in the world through thousands
of small actions that have resulted in a huge difference. Through their tireless work planning
healthy bake sales, creating cookbooks, participating in walk-a-thons and other school wide
events, these ambassadors demonstrated what a powerful force for change young people truly
are.
Students in Kenya benefitting from the actions of their peers in North America through Life in Action’s
Plate by Plate campaign, a campaign to support Free The Children’s lunch program at our schools in
Kenya
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The Three Pillars of Life in Action
Eat
More than ever, young people are finding it difficult to make smart food choices.
Life in Action’s expert facilitators provide youth with knowledge on proper health
and nutrition.
Youth are empowered to take action by promoting healthier food choices in their
schools and communities through a variety of actions, like:
“Less Junk in Your Trunk,” a school-wide healthy recipe contest
Health Challenges: a multi-week initiative that dares students to substantially
improve their eating habits by avoiding junk foods and getting their daily 5+
servings of fruits and veggies
Healthy cooking workshops and bake sales
These activities show youth how to pursue healthier diets every day
Play
We believe that all young people deserve the right to play. In workshops, facilitators
lead students in interactive and fun teambuilding games, engaging youth in
non-traditional ways of becoming more physically active.
Life in Action ambassadors are responsible for passing on this approach to their
peers, families and community, often resulting in creative activities that engage
others in physical activity. Some of the great ideas we’ve seen include:
School-wide run- or walk-a-thons
Teacher-student sports events
Indoor beach volleyball tournaments
Student-teacher talent competitions
Community clean-up days
By organizing these fun events, the ambassadors promote fitness and active living,
ensuring that youth in their communities make the most of their opportunities to
play!
Care
Young people have the power to change our world. This power can be harnessed by
learning more about social responsibility and global issues. Our facilitators guide
students through educational and leadership-training activities that explore issues
like hunger, lack of education or resource scarcity that their peers outside North
America face every single day.
In action-oriented workshops, youth learn how they can improve the lives of others
through their daily choices and school-based awareness campaigns like:
Hearts for Haiti: A campaign to support communities devastated by the
earthquake in Haiti
Cooking dinners for the homeless every week
Fundraising for Free The Children
These actions have enabled Life in Action ambassadors to realize the incredible
power they have to improve our world.
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Life in Action TCDSB Schools 2009–2010
Holy Family Catholic Elementary School
St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School
St. Dunstan Catholic Elementary School
St. Gabriel Lament Catholic Elementary School
St. John Catholic Elementary School
St. Nicholas of Bari Catholic Elementary School
St. Raymond Catholic Elementary School
St. Rose of Lima Catholic Elementary School
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Elementary School
Facilitator Profile
Emily Finnie first joined the Free The Children team in 2008 as an International Youth
Coordinator. After spending a year working with incredible young people and dedicated educators
in that role, she pursued her combined love for healthy living and social responsibility within the
Life in Action program that stole her heart. As a Life in Action Speaker and Facilitator, she has
worked with all the Toronto Catholic District School Board participating in the Life in Action
program this year, in addition to other districts across North America. She feels extraordinarily
lucky to have spoken to over 10,000 youth in Canada and the United States this year.
Emily grew up volunteering in her parish community, at her local food bank and with the Out of the
Cold program in her hometown of Brantford, Ontario. After her experience volunteering in Virginia
to rebuild low-income housing destroyed by 2003’s Hurricane Isabel, Emily knew she would always make
community service a big part of her life.
During her time as an undergraduate student of politics and global development at Queen's University, Emily
was fortunate enough to find many different avenues to strive toward this goal. She volunteered extensively,
chairing her faculty society’s orientation program, serving as a big buddy to youth at-risk, and working within
her student government. During this time, Emily also became a member of a student-run global health
initiative of the university called Queen's Health Outreach (QHO). Through QHO, Emily travelled to Guyana
on a summer-long health promotion project as a peer-educator. In partnership with the Guyana Red Cross,
she visited various host communities where she facilitated health and leadership workshops with local youth
on topics including HIV/AIDS, discrimination, effective communication, malaria prevention, basic nutrition,
first aid and child abuse. When she later became the project’s director, she organized more sustainable
outreach into several rural Guyanese communities while also strengthening ties with QHO’s local, grassroots
partners. This experience allowed Emily to witness the transformative power of community health promotion,
the importance of universal primary education and the extraordinary potential of youth leadership.
Emily smiles incessantly and is commonly found mid-fit of laugher. She has found that her addiction to travel
has only intensified her love of all kinds of delicious and healthy international foods, some of which she’s
been able to recreate in her kitchen at home! Emily tries her best to practice what she “preaches” to her Life
in Action ambassadors and enjoys staying active by practicing yoga, running and, most recently joined a
roller derby team! A wannabe artist, poet and mountaineer, Emily believes that love can heal the planet. She
thinks Ani DiFranco’s lyrics sum her up best, "I do it for the joy it brings because I'm a joyful girl. Because the
world owes me nothing and we owe each other the world."
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Life in Action ambassadors slowing off their best orange
smile and having fun with a delicious healthy snack
School
Profiles
Life in Action Ambassadors creating
action plans to better their health,
their community and the world
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St. Raymond’s
Veteran TCDSB Life in Action ambassador, Laura (on left) passing on her knowledge of
healthy snacks at a St. Raymond’s cooking demonstration
Life in Action started this school year off with the help of a very special guest. Laura
Armenio was a TCDSB Life in Action ambassador in 2005, the very first year of the
program. Now seventeen years old, Laura has been tangibly impacted for the better by
Life in Action. She has become very involved with the program and is now a mentor and
a shining example for new Life in Action ambassadors.
In 2006, Laura’s school was selected to participate in the Life in Action volunteer trip at
the Arizona-Mexico border. Going on this trip allowed Laura to open her eyes to various
different world issues, such as poverty. It gave her a chance to learn stories of people’s
lives that were so different from her own and allowed her to give back through
volunteering.
After returning from the trip, Laura has been very involved with Free the Children and
now volunteers at the organization on a regular basis while at the same time completing
her last year of high school.
Laura accompanied the Life in Action team to a visit to St. Raymond’s Catholic
Elementary School. While there, she helped with a food workshop and gave a speech
to the students detailing how the Life in Action program has continued to better her life.
The students were captivated by Laura!
After her speech, the Life in Action ambassadors made some delicious fruit parfaits,
learning how to incorporate healthy eating into their lifestyles in a fun and easy way.
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St. Rose of Lima
The grade seven students at St. Rose of Lima Catholic School are getting their
lives in action! These superstars are taking an active part in their school’s efforts
to make their school eco-friendly by joining the school’s Green Team. They also
participated in a Halloween for Hunger food drive to support their local food bank,
and joined thousands of other students at Free The Children’s annual We Day
event in Toronto.
These students have a passion for the Life in Action program that is palpable!
They were eager to express what they had learned through the Life in Action
program by way of poetry and visual art.
“We can make a difference,
We all just need to try,
If you don’t succeed, you don’t have to cry.
One person can make a difference,
When you give it all you got.
Don’t think about the negative things,
It’s worth a shot.
We are Life in Action,
Eat, play, care!
So get ready,
There are challenges out there.”
- Gianne Fajarda, Grade 7 student
The poetry and artwork of St. Rose of Lima Life in Action ambassador’s, used to raise
awareness of healthy, active living and social responsibility in their school
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St. John
Life in Action ambassadors at St. John dig into a healthy snack after learning about
global food distribution
This is the second year that St. John has taken part in the Life in Action program and they
have blown us away with their incredible actions yet again! With the help of two
incredible educators, Patrick Breech and Karine El-Chacra, they have exceeded our
expectations.
It all began with an all-school assembly where together, we initiated a year-long of
making change in personal lifestyles and change in the world. Students at St. John have
worked so hard to accomplish many big goals! Their action plans took root after our first
visit and by the second time I stepped foot in the corridors of St. John, I knew big things
were happening.
This year, the Life in Action ambassadors at St. John took the message of “care” into their
hearts and really took action! After learning about how other children around the world
face barriers accessing education, food and clean water, St. John Life in Action
Ambassadors participated in the Vow of Silence this spring. Students pledged to stay
silent for 24 hours to support children who are silenced by the denial of their basic rights.
They collected donations for each hour they stayed silent and some for the day as a
whole. For many silence meant no speaking, and for others it meant no communicating at
all: no e-mailing, no social networking, no instant messaging, no note-writing.
Sometimes the quietest actions create the loudest response. Students at St. John
attracted as much attention as possible with their silence to raise awareness and create
real social change by standing up for the voiceless.
We look forward to seeing what the students at St. John come up with next year!
Thank you Emily, for coming to our school today. There has been good feedback from
the grade 6's and already many teachers have said that your speech was very
"powerful/inspirational/well done". Thanks again. – Patrick Breech, educator at St.
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John
Thanks again,
Patrick
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St. Nicholas of Bari
The Life in Action ambassadors show off their best smiles while getting active in the classroom
The Life in Action ambassadors at St. Nicholas of Bari
have been hard at work all year! First, students in Ms.
Slapsys’ class focused on the pillar of “Eat” by looking into
what they were really eating in their daily bowl of breakfast
cereal. Students got to show off their creative side by
coming up with their own brand of healthy and balanced
cereal, a project that included learning how to read a
nutrition label carefully and correctly. Sugary cereals be
warned! The Life in Action ambassadors at St. Nicholas of
Bari are on to you.
Along with doing in depth projects on nutrition, these
ambassadors also embraced “Care” and found that the
issue that was really important in their school community
was the environment. After learning about how closely
healthy food is related to a healthy environment, Life in
Action ambassadors at St. Nicholas of Bari created their
school’s very first Eco Club to educate their fellow
students on the importance of caring for the environment
and being stewards of the earth. So far, the Eco Club’s
actions have included hosting a battery drop-off, collecting
empty plastic water bottles, raffling off reusable water
bottles and spreading awareness at their school with their
own presentations to show fellow students what the world
could be like without litter.
A creative nutrition project
Together with the encouragement of St. Nicholas of Bari’s motivating educators, there is
no doubt that this group will soon begin to expand their knowledge, even more, of the
effects they can have on their peers, community and the entire world.
“Emily, thank you for coming to our class and teaching us about Life In Action. It was really
fun and you taught us a lot about being healthy! I wish we could see you again but today
was your last time coming, we will all miss you!”
- Nicole Panda, Life in Action Ambassador at St. Nicholas of Bari
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St. Gabriel Lalemant
A visual representation of what Life in Action ambassadors at St. Gabriel
Lalemant learned about healthy lifestyles
St.Gabriel Lalemant is a long time supporter of Free The Children and the Life in Action
program. The Life in action ambassadors here are an amazing group of grade eight
students who have met some incredible goals this year. Through participating in the Life
in Action program, Diana Marchese’s grade eight class at St. Gabriel Lalemant has
increased their knowledge of healthy foods to eat and have gained the skills to create
change on several interconnected global issues. Along with the participating class, the
entire school has taken a step forward together and are participating in Free The
Children’s Adopt A Village.
During our afternoon workshop, students participated in many activities focused on
learning about the connections between world issues. Among many topics, they
discussed how they can use their talents and abilities to change an issue in the world.
Each student assembled their very own Gift + Issue = Change equation, and included the
first few steps to get started on these plans to take action.
After a successful first visit, the Life in Action facilitator could not wait to go back to
discover all of the positive change that this school would make in their community and the
entire world. She was delighted to discover that this group’s enthusiasm had only grown
since the first time!
After two successful visits at St. Gabriel Lalemant, the Life in Action team is looking
forward to seeing this group of ambassadors engage others in their mission to change
the world
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St. Vincent de Paul
Ambassadors in the playground, working on a challenging team building activity
called Lava Pit
The students at St. Vincent de Paul are excited about change! During the first facilitator
visit, the ambassadors had the opportunity to learn about the health challenges faced by
young people, just like them, in different parts of the world. One of these challenges was
access to healthy nutritious food.
The ambassadors continued to become more engaged in the world, and what they could
do to change it, by getting involved in the Life in Action program. With incredible support
from their inspiring educator, Sarah Martin, the students of St. Vincent de Paul are
optimistic about the ripple effect of positive change they can make in the world.
Throughout the second Life in Action workshop, the class was able to participate in many
activities to further their understanding of the power they hold, as youth, in our world to
create positive social change. As a result of many activities focused on bringing them out
of their comfort zone. During a team building activity called Lava Pit, the class was asked
to overcome an obstacle as a team, and use their collective ideas to accomplish the goal.
Ms. Martin’s class rose to the challenge! With disappointing results on their first attempts,
the group never gave up and pushed on. In the end, by incorporating each class member
in the plan, they reached their goal, and did so with fantastic energy. By participating in
this team building activity the group acquired new leadership skills and belief in their
ability to work together to create a successful outcome.
Whether it was by tackling a new and difficult task or by answering challenging questions
to discover more about one another, this group continued to learn and grow together. At
the end of the day, the group not only left with new skills, but a new found passion for the
global issues that effect so many around the world.
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St. Dunstan
In an activity called Issues Web, ambassadors listed world issues important to
them and then saw how they connect to each other
St. Dunstan became involved with the Life in Action program and Free The Children
several years ago and has remained a strong supporter of both. Two years ago, they
attended our first ever We Day event, becoming even more dedicated to creating a
healthier and more socially aware school, community and world.
This year, within weeks of their first Life in Action workshop, the ambassadors of St.
Dunstan were creating a large ripple effect in their school community. With a big push
from their outstanding educator, Christian Madigan, the school was exposed to many
opportunities like Free The Children’s annual We Day event. Immediately after, a social
action club was formed at St. Dunstan. This incredible club is filled with inspiring students
who want to take action on global issues. Many of the Life in Action participants have
joined the club, and have been spending all of their free time at school brainstorming
fundraising events and making posters to bring awareness to their cause.
Together we created action plans to make the St. Dunstan school community an even
more vibrant, healthy and engaged community. Their activities have ranged from
fundraising for communities in Africa through Free The Children’s Adopt a Village
campaign to becoming an Eco School. St. Dunstan continues working hard to promote
healthy active living and social responsibility at their school.
Dear Emily, Thank you for including us in your Life In Action schools!
The students and teachers at St. Dunstan's have done many things for the community
and for our school. St. Dunstan's has participated in charity fundraisers, EcoSchools,
and we are an active Me to We group. We've gone on trips to Good Shepherd, We
Day, and EcoSchools. We do Earth Hour and “Litter-less Lunches. We are proud to say
that we have raised money for Africa! Thank you again!
- Christian Madigan, educator, St. Dunstan
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Life in Action
ambassadors of Holy
Family say thank
You to the
TCDSB!!!
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17
YOUTH AND PHILANTHROPY INITIATIVE
Toronto Catholic District School Board
2009 - 2010
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YOUTH AND PHILANTHROPY INITIATIVE
In the 2009-2010 school year, ten high schools in the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB)
participated in the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). Of these schools, six were coordinated
through Me to We: Bishop Morocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School, Cardinal Carter
Academy for the Arts, Loretto College, Michael Power/St. Joseph Secondary School, St. Joseph’s Morrow
Park High School, and Brebeuf College School. An additional four schools were coordinated through the
Toskan Casale Foundation. Through YPI, Grade 10 students at all of these schools had the opportunity
to learn and think critically about the issues affecting people in their local community, research and visit
local charities, and advocate on behalf of the charity of their choice. A wide variety of issues and
charities were represented by the students; they provided a voice for countless people living in their
communities struggling with domestic abuse, poverty, immigration challenges, and more.
In April and May, the student groups who were selected as having the strongest YPI presentations from
each class presented to a panel of judges (comprised of students, teachers, and community members)
and an audience of peers, to advocate on behalf of their chosen charity, and compete for the
opportunity to receive a $5,000 grant from the Toskan Casale Foundation to give back to their chosen
charity. Through these presentations, students in the TCDSB awarded a total of $50,000 to charities in
their local communities!
The impact that YPI has had on the students and communities that are part of the TCDSB has been truly
touching. Many students said that their participation in YPI had been a “life-changing” and “eyeopening” experience. Many teachers expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities that YPI provided
for students and the community. All of this was possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of all
of the teachers and students involved, and thanks to the support that has been provided at the board
level.
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Bishop Morrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School
1515 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M6P1A3
Contact Teacher: Steve DeQuintal
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Sara Porisky
YPI Students: 90 Grade 9 Religions Students
Selected Group: Raquel Lopes, Smantha Couto, Samantha Fias, Jesslyn Bermudez, Stephanie
Clifford
Information Workshop: November 17th, 2009; March 1st, 2010
Final Presentation: May 12th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Hannah Feldberg
Grant Recipient: Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club: The Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club was
created in order to identify and respond to the changing needs of children, adolescents and
families of a multi-cultural, urban community. They provide programs promoting the physical,
social, educational, vocational and character development of children between the ages of 2.5
to 17 years, offering technical assistance (i.e. referrals to other agencies, advocacy and so on)
and by offering a secure environment, daycare services and a facility to accommodate the
initiatives of community members.
CRA Designation Number – 127722304RR0001
$5000: The Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club plans to use the $5,000 to set up a library to help
the students who use their service. This will include computers for homework and research,
books for a library, and art supplies.
Other Charities Represented:
Oasis
Dufferin Community Centre
Integra
Furniture Bank
Aid to Women
Liberty International Church
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: The Dovercourt Boys and Girls Club was created in
order to identify and respond to the changing needs of children, adolescents
and families of a multi-cultural, urban community.
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Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts
36 Greenfield Avenue, Willowdale, ON, M2N3C8
Contact Teacher: Melanie Gaudet, Teresa Micelli
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Sara Porisky
YPI Students: 75 Grade 10 Civics Students
Selected Group: Brianna Meddaoui, Kimberly Angeles, Julia Maano
Information Workshop: N/A
Final Presentation: April 27th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Ridhi Kukreja
Grant Recipient: BOOST: BOOST is a community-based agency committed to eliminating
abuse and violence in the lives of children, youth and their families. BOOST offers support and
intervention to children and youth in Toronto, providing programs and services in the areas of
prevention & public education, assessment & treatment and child victim/witness court
preparation.
CRA Designation Number – 119039568RR0001
$5000: BOOST will use the $5,000 grant to support the programs that they provide for youth in
Toronto who are dealing with abuse and violence.
Other Charities Represented:
Covenant House
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: BOOST is a community-based agency committed to
eliminating abuse and violence in the lives of children, youth and their
families.
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Loretto College
151 Rosemount Avenue, Toronto, ON, M6H2N1
Contact Teacher: Diane Vautour
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Sara Porisky
YPI Students: 130 Grade 10 Civics Students
Selected Group: Carleen Veloso, Michelle Henriques, Faith Arkofy, Claudia Cordeiro
Information Workshop: N/A
Final Presentation: May 19th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Corrine Viegas
Grant Recipient: The Cerebral Palsy Support Foundation of Canada: The Cerebral Palsy
Support Foundation is a one stop resource for Canadians with Cerebral Palsy and similar
mobility disabilities and has been created to help them locate and access assistive items, and
any other support needs that will give them a better, more mobile/accessible and happy life,
without undue struggle, hardship or poverty.
CRA Designation Number – 848342168RR001
$5000: The Cerebral Palsy Support Foundation will use the $5,000 grant to help them access
supplies to support living with Cerebral Palsy, such as mobility equipment.
Other Charities Represented:
Best Buddies
St. Jude’s Academy of the Arts
Amici Camping Charity
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: The Cerebral Palsy Support Foundation is a one stop
resource for Canadians with Cerebral Palsy and similar mobility disabilities.
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Michael Power/St. Joseph’s High School
105 Eringate Drive, Etobicoke, ON, M9C3Z7
Contact Teacher: Maura Scully
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Sara Porisky
YPI Students: 400 Grade 10 Civics Students
Selected Group: Bart Czerniaswski, Lucas Nunez, Adam Jakopin
Information Workshop: N/A
Final Presentation: April 26th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Sara Porisky
Grant Recipient: St. James United Church Food Basket: The St. James United Church Food
Basket is a food bank and soup kitchen that was started in the area at the request of local social
services agencies to help respond to the high need for food assistance in the area. Clients
receive food hampers from the Food Basket, and can also stop by for a hot nutritious meal.
CRA Designation Number – 108021700RR0001
$5000: The St. James United Church Food Basket will use the $5,000 grant to purchase a
much-needed walk-in fridge/freezer. This will help them address the food spoilage issue that
they have been dealing with, allowing them to be more efficient with the storage and distribution
of food.
Other Charities Represented:
Arising Women’s Place
Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter
Ideal-Way
Dixon Community Services
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: The St. James United Church Food Basket is a food
bank and soup kitchen that was started in the area at the request of local
social services agencies to help respond to the high need for food assistance
in the area.
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Park High School
3379 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2M 3S4
Contact Teacher: Michael Paterna
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Sara Porisky
YPI Students: 180 Grade 10 Civics Students
Selected Group: Alyssa-Shanae Lopez, Analiza Habayno, Alda Guo Basto da Silva, Alfea
Cassandra Dsnato, Laura Betancourt
Information Workshop: November 11th, 2009
Final Presentation: April 29th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Sara Porisky
Grant Recipient: Catholic Cross-Cultural Services: Catholic Cross-cultural Services (CCS) is a
non-profit agency providing services that assist in the settlement and integration of immigrants
and refugees.
CRA Designation Number – 131644171RR0001
$5000: Catholic Cross-Cultural Services allowed the winning group to decide which service they
wanted the $5,000 grant to support. They chose to put it towards funding to allow young
immigrants in the Toronto community to go to a summer camp put on by the organization that
provides participants with the opportunity to learn more about Canada, go camping, learn about
environmental conservation, practice English, and meet other youth.
Other Charities Represented:
St. Bernadette’s Family Resource Centre/St. Jude’s Academy of the Arts
Silent Voice
Alli’s Journey
Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: Catholic Cross-cultural Services (CCS) is a non-profit
agency providing services that assist in the settlement and integration of
immigrants and refugees.
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Brebeuf College School
1455 Glen Abbey Gate, Oakville, Ontario, L6M 2G5
Contact Teacher: Michael Schmidt
Overseeing YPI Coordinator: Mischa Hamara
YPI Students: 150 Grade 10 Civics students
Selected Group: Matthew Tonello, Luc Chiasson, Elijah Springer, Marek Kmiea
Information Workshop: October 21st 2009, December 3rd 2010
Final Presentation: May 4th, 2010
Toskan Casale Foundation Representative(s): Mischa Hamara
Grant Recipient: Foodshare Toronto: FoodShare Toronto is a non-profit community
organization whose vision is Good Healthy Food for All. They operative innovative grassroots
projects promoting healthy eating, teach food preparation and cultivation, develop community
capacity, create non-market-based forms of food distribution, and provide subsidized fresh
produce.
CRA Designation Number – 107392359RR001
$5000: Foodshare Toronto will use the $5,000 grant to develop workshops in schools to teach
students about healthy eating habits.
Other Charities Represented:
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
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YPI Photo:
$5,000 Grant Recipient: FoodShare Toronto is a non-profit community
organization whose vision is Good Healthy Food for All.
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