Southridge is a place where students regularly make contributions to the greater good, and it can be seen throughout our K-12 program. Our students, young and old, positively impact our local and global communities through a wide array of service programs, initiatives, and partnerships.
Service learning starts early here. Through events such as the ‘PYP Exhibition’ and ‘Making a Difference Fair’, our students are encouraged to investigate causes they feel passionately about, find ways to meaningfully support them, and experience what it’s like to make a difference in the lives of others. Students often feel a lasting desire to take action on issues important to them, which we see continued into the Senior School.
Here are a few examples:
FUNDRAISER FOR THE BC SPCA
To enhance the quality of life for animals in care and keep them warm and dry, a group of students (Grade 5) held a jellybean raffle and towel/blanket drive for the BC SPCA.
ART INSTALLATION AT SURREY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
To bring a sense of joy to kids facing long stays in hospital, a group of students (Grade 3, now 4) made 2,000 origami cranes, arranged them on the beach in the shape of the word ‘JOY’, took a photo, and had it printed on canvas. The picture is now on display between the Ronald McDonald Family Room and neonatal intensive care unit.
FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCT DRIVE
To recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day, students (Grade 8-12) collected donations of feminine hygiene products to support homeless women in our local community.
SERVICE WEEK
Students (Grade 10) volunteer for organizations in our local community:
- Nicomekl Enhancement Society
- Semiahmoo House
- The Residence at Morgan Heights
- Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
- And more!
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Students (Grade 8-12) grow produce (i.e. kale, onions, potatoes) to be used as ingredients in soup and sandwiches for the Surrey Urban Mission.
SANDWICH MAKING CLUB
Students (Grade K-3) meet once per week to assemble sandwiches that will later be served (by Grade 8-12 students) to guests of the Surrey Urban Mission.
INTERNATIONAL SERVICE TRIPS
Students (Grade 8-12) travel to developing countries (i.e. Uganda, Cambodia, Guatemala) to participate in service projects (i.e. building a library for a school) while experiencing new cultures.
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
Students (Grade K-12) assemble much-needed items into baskets for young mothers of Growing Together Daycare (Options Community Services).
FOOD FRIDAYS
Students (Grade K-7) bring in donations of non-perishable food items every Friday for the Surrey Food Bank.
WORLD PARTNERSHIP WALK
JUMP ROPE FOR HEART
TERRY FOX RUN
From the Spring 2018 Spirit Magazine