Growing up, many mentors volunteered their valuable time to pour their lives into me to make me the man I've become. Since then, I've learned it's only right to do the same for others. I've been helping youth in the Rexdale community through the Rexdale Youth Movement organization. While mentoring others is rewarding, it's even more rewarding learning from my mentees.
— Jeremiah Boateng, Class of 2020
During my undergrad, I dedicated much of my time to Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). As a Big Sister, I met with my Little Sibling to hear her concerns. This encourages her to speak openly about her thoughts, as she develops the confidence to voice her opinion to others. I also volunteer with Home Suite Hope Shared Living which helps low-income and single-parent families attain financial stability. My volunteer experiences in marginalized communities have made me more empathetic and compassionate. Volunteering has instilled the spirit of giving in me and allowed me to make positive contributions.
— Simran Joshi, Class of 2020
I work with the Jane and Finch Community Centre in the Financial Empowerment and Problem Solving Department as part of my YorkU internship. During my internship, I developed a workshop to teach youth about financial literary. I reached out to and advocated on behalf of J/F community members.
— Milena Pizzi, Class of 2020
Through York's T.A.S.T.E. Program, I interned at a criminal law firm in Toronto. This taught me the importance of knowing one's rights. My volunteer opportunities at Mackenzie Health Hospital, Humanity First and Human Endeavour also shaped me into the person I am today. These experiences taught me about the value of community, diversity, ethics and passion. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities York has given me and I want to use my education to assist those who has experienced trauma, abuse, injustice and sorrow.
— Enisse Cuevas Corona, Class of 2020
In my first year, I became actively involved in several campus clubs and organizations. I was elected president of the Jack.org mental health charity York chapter and became a lead organizer for the HEROES Hockey youth outreach program. I think HEROES was the best way to get involved in the Jane Finch community (where I grew up), as it provided me access to mentor the area's youth, and a platform to speak with parents and other community members. I am happy with the conversations I have shared through these experience. I will continue to strive to be a social change maker.
— Nigel Aziz, Class of 2020
When I was offered a position as a volunteer probation officer, I knew I could be a catalyst for positive change. In this role, I provided resources to help my clients successfully complete their probation terms. I try to be as welcoming as possible to assure them they can always rely on me. I learned that kindness and support are sometimes all it takes to restore someone's standing and for them to remain on the right side of the law.
— Samantha Riley, Class of 2020
I volunteer with the PACT Urban Peace Program which offers programs to low-income neighbourhoods. These programs include coaching, cooking classes, painting and gardening. I am also taking a certification through PACT to coach at-risk youth. As a coach, my role will be ensuring adolescents who desire positivity have a trusted adult for reassurance.
— Shaquille Mitchell, Class of 2020