Final day to register for MacServe Day of Learning
As part of the annual MacServe Day of Learning, service-learning excursions will touch down in Hamilton, Mississauga, Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver on Sept. 28.
Next weekend, more than 200 students, staff, faculty and alumni will venture into communities across Canada to volunteer their time, absorb information and make a difference as part of the MacServe Day of Learning.
Now in its 11th year, the Day of Learning is an annual service-learning program co-ordinated by the Student Success Centre (SSC). This year’s edition takes place Saturday, Sept. 28.
“The experience gives participants an opportunity to learn about the diverse social issues their assigned community is facing, whether it’s poverty, hunger, health or the environment,” said Sean Beaudette, service-learning and civic engagement program coordinator with the SSC.
Volunteer work will take place at a variety of locations across Canada, including EcoSource in Mississauga — a grassroots organization dedicated to environmental responsibility — and several non-profit organizations in Hamilton such as Habitat for Humanity, Able Living, Welcome Inn and the YWCA.
McMaster alumni will also be involved in Day of Learning events in Calgary (Ronald McDonald House), Ottawa (Salvation Army), Toronto (Good Shepherd and Salvation Army) and Vancouver (Grandview Woodland Food Connection).
“Being a McMaster student is about more than interacting within the McMaster bubble,” said past participant Hetal Patel. “It’s about learning, contributing to and becoming part of the Hamilton community.”
In addition to helping a good cause, Beaudette says the MacServe experience is also about establishing a meaningful exchange between participants and the community groups. Unlike other postsecondary service-learning programs, the MacServe series is focused on desired learning outcomes with considerable time given to both orientation and reflection.
Reflection allows participants to connect with their service placements on a deeper level, challenge their beliefs and consider what role they can play in their community. “Many participants have been inspired by their experiences and are still actively involved with service in their communities,” said Beaudette. “For the staff at the Student Success Centre, this is the greatest measure of success.”
Registration for the MacServe Day of Learning closes on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 11:59 p.m.
For more information, please contact servicelearning@mcmaster.ca.
