Diploma Requirements and Volunteer Hours

Community Involvement Hours

Student’s Guide to Community Involvement

What is Community Involvement?

• An event or activity designed to be of benefit to the community

• A graduation requirement for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma

• Total of 40 hours of community involvement activities **

• A volunteer activity – not for pay or credit

• A constructive contribution to the community  

Why has the Ministry of Education mandated it?

• Reinforces civic responsibility

• Strengthens the community

• Enhances one’s self-confidence and self-image

• Offers networking for future employment

• Provides an experience for students to include in their portfolios  

When must students complete it?

• Any time during the secondary school program, beginning the summer before students enter grade 9, and prior to graduation

• Outside class hours, for example:

• during lunch breaks

• in the evening

• on weekends

• during school breaks

• during the summer months  

** Schools are responsible for recording 40 hours in the student’s profile.   Students will track any hours that are accumulated beyond the 40 hour requirement.  

It is at the school’s discretion to input hours beyond the 40 hour requirement. 

COMMUNITY HOURS ACTIVITY FORM