From Learning to Action: an applied learning series for future social service and health professionals
Take your learning beyond the classroom. This five-session learning series is designed for students interested in social work, health and community-based professions who want to develop practical knowledge in key areas they are likely to encounter throughout their careers.
Learn from practitioners and subject matter experts as they share real-world insights into crisis intervention, housing rights, mental health legislation, immigration and the criminal justice system. Along the way, you'll gain tools, resources and a deeper understanding of the systems that impact the individuals and communities you will serve. Attend the session(s) that interest you most or attend all five to earn a Certificate of Completion.
Note: These are in-person sessions. Spots are limited.
Upcoming Events
Introduction to the Criminal Justice System in Canada
Instructor: Community & Legal Aid Services Programme (CLASP), Osgoode Hall Law School
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 21
Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Location: Provided with registration confirmation
Many vulnerable individuals encounter the criminal justice system in everyday life. From regular police interactions, convicted offences and criminal record checks for employment, individuals face several challenges navigating the system. Join CLASP’s staff counsel Steven Yu, and Criminal Law Division Leaders as they explore key areas of our criminal justice system in Canada. Familiarize yourself with the Criminal Code, gain insight into common procedures and understand what clients and community members might face.
Crisis Response 101: Recognize, Assess, Respond
Instructor: Manager, Complex Communities - Andrea W. Westbrook, BFA, MSW, RSW
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 17
Time: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Location: Provided with registration confirmation
This learning session is designed to strengthen our ability to respond effectively to individuals experiencing a crisis through education, collaboration and trauma-informed practice. You will learn the fundamentals of crisis assessment and response, gaining practical skills to recognize signs of distress, provide compassionate and appropriate support and connect individuals with community resources. By promoting safety, understanding and effective intervention, this session aims to build more inclusive, supportive and resilient communities for all.
Introduction to Tenant Rights and the Landlord and Tenant Board in Ontario
Instructor: Community & Legal Aid Services Programme (CLASP), Osgoode Hall Law School
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2027
Time: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Location: Provided with registration confirmation
Join us for this learning session all about tenant rights. Delivered by Anum Malik, supervising lawyer, and law students from the University, you will learn about tenant rights, including repair/maintenance issues, illegal entries, harassment and other topics. This session will also cover what to expect at a Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) hearing for a tenant application.
Understanding the Mental Health Act in Ontario as a frontline worker
Instructor: Manager, Complex Communities - Andrea W. Westbrook, BFA, MSW, RSW
Date: Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2027
Time: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Location: Provided with registration confirmation
Join social worker and Complex Communities Manager, Andrea Westbrook, for a snapshot of the Mental Health Act in Ontario for frontline workers. This session offers practice‑based learning tailored specifically for social workers, focusing on how the Act shapes their work and responsibilities. Participants will explore a range of case scenarios and real‑life examples to better understand the legislation, its impact on the individuals they support and the sometimes-conflicting role social workers play in monitoring, applying and upholding the Act.
Introduction to the Immigration System in Canada
Instructor: Community & Legal Aid Services Programme (CLASP), Osgoode Hall Law School
Date: Tuesday, March 23, 2027
Time: 12:30 – 2 p.m.
Location: Provided with registration confirmation
Join us to learn about the immigration system in Canada. Toronto is home to many newcomers and individuals that have interacted with the immigration system in some capacity. The impact of these interactions is great; many face a variety of consequences throughout everyday life. As service providers, it is crucial to understand how the system functions and equip ourselves with this knowledge in the pursuit of advocacy and social justice.
During this session, the Community & Legal Aid Services Programme (CLASP) will provide insight into Canadian Immigration Law including refugee claims, applications for permanent residency on humanitarian and compassionate grounds and other key legal processes.