Friday, April 08, 2016
Ministry of Citizenship, Immigration and International Trade
Young Ontarians Kick Off Ninth Annual ChangeTheWorld Campaign
Youth Challenged to Volunteer in Their Community
Ontario is challenging high school students to "change the world" by volunteering for at least three hours in the communities.
Markham area high school students helped kick off the ninth annual ChangeTheWorld - Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge today by doing a "Brain Games" activity with residents of the Marleigh Retirement Residence. The challenge runs from April 10 to May 23, coinciding with National Volunteer Week, from April 10 to 16.
This year's goal is to have 39,000 students aged 14 to 18 participate in volunteering. The ChangeTheWorld challenge, which is delivered in partnership with the Ontario Volunteer Centre Network, encourages young people to get involved in their communities and helps them develop important skills like teamwork and leadership.
Encouraging young people to participate in Ontario's tradition of volunteering is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
Quick Facts:
- The 2016 ChangeTheWorld campaign runs from April 10 to May 23, 2016.
- Since 2008, over 181,000 Ontario youth have contributed more than 870,000 volunteer hours in their communities through ChangeTheWorld.
- Ontario students must complete 40 volunteer hours to graduate from high school.
Additional Resources:
Quotes:
"The ChangeTheWorld - Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge is an excellent way for youth to get involved in their communities and experience the rewards of giving back. Over the years, ChangeTheWorld has helped thousands of young people develop their skills, hone their talents, and discover their passions through volunteering."
— Michael Chan, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and International Trade
"The ChangeTheWorld – Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge is an opportunity for youth ages 14 to 18 to prove that no one is ever too young to make a difference. Everyone can make a contribution. Just imagine the power of what you can achieve, setting your own personal standard by contributing your time and talent for the good of your community. We encourage youth to connect with their local Volunteer Centre to participate in this year's ChangeTheWorld campaign and to become part of the change they wish to see in their communities and beyond."
— Patricia Weiler, Chair of the Ontario Volunteer Centre Network
Media Contacts:
Katrina Sands
Minister's Office
416-325-6205
Laura Sylvis
Communications Branch
416-314-7010
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