Discovering Our Global Family

Over the past decade, students and staff at the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board have participated in 50 mission trips, to eight countries, on three continents.

Brian first traveled to Kenya in 2007 as a faculty advisor for teacher candidates with Nipissing University. His experience in the community of Emori Joi Kenya impacted him so much that, upon his return home, he began planning a similar experience for the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board community. Right from the beginning of his experience, Brian recognized the significance of inspiring a global perspective and the importance of the Christian call to solidarity.

In the words of the Dalai Lama, “Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into the water, the actions of individuals can have far reaching effects.” The ripple effect of Brian’s 2007 experience has led to hundreds of SMCDSB staff and students blessed with an opportunity to travel to Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Ecuador, China, India and Nicaragua and work in partnership with our brothers and sisters around the globe. The lessons learned will certainly cast ripples in countless communities for years to come.