Students are required to complete a minimum of 40 hours of community involvement activities before graduation.

• School staff will discuss appropriate types of community involvement activities and projects with students and may offer suggestions, but the selection and management of the involvement is to be directed by the student.

• The TDSB publishes a list of approved and non-approved activities. Students choosing an activity not on the approved list must apply for permission in writing to the school Principal.

• Activities may take place inside or outside the school. If inside, activities may not be part of a credit course.

• The student may not displace a worker who would normally have been paid to perform the same function or receive pay.

• Community involvement may begin in the summer after Grade 8.

• An indication of completion will be entered on the student’s Ontario Student Transcript when the 40 hours have been submitted and approved.

NEW- We’re pleased to share that the Ministry of Education has introduced a new Minister’s Certificate of Recognition for Community Involvement to honour students graduating who complete 50 or more volunteer hours.

Students will receive distinctions based on the number of hours completed:
• Bronze: 50–99 hours
• Silver: 100–199 hours
• Gold: 200+ hours

If your child would like to receive this certificate in recognition of community service in time for the Commencement ceremony, please ensure that all community service hours are submitted to the Guidance Office by April 1, 2027.

Thank you for your continued support in encouraging students to make a positive impact in our community.

Community Involvement Facts:

What is community involvement?

• A volunteer activity – not for pay or credit

• A constructive contribution to the community

Why does the Ministry of Education mandate it?

• Reinforces civic responsibility

• Strengthens the community

• Enhances self-confidence and self-image

• Offers networking for future employment

• Provides an experience for students to include in their career portfolio, also known as their Individual Pathways Plan

When must students complete it?

• Any time during the secondary school program after the student has graduated from Grade 8

• Outside class hours, for example:

  • During lunch breaks

  • In the evening

  • On weekends

  • During school breaks

  • During summer months

IMPORTANT LINKS

TDSB Student Volunteer Form  (list of approved & ineligible activities on page 2 of form), Click HERE

WHERE TO SEARCH FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

• Volunteer Toronto, Click HERE

• Link to Volunteer Canada, Click HERE 

• City of Toronto volunteer opportunities, Click HERE

• Toronto Public Library, Click HERE 

• Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Click HERE

• Charity Village, Click HERE

• The Neighbourhood Organization (TNO), Click HERE

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR VOLUNTEER HOURS?

1.  Completely fill out the TDSB Student Volunteer Form (see link above to download form).  If you have questions about how to fill out the form, please check with your guidance counsellor.

2. After you have filled out the TDSB Student Volunteer Form, have a parent/guardian/caregiver sign it. Then bring it to your Guidance Counsellor for approval. Once approved, the Guidance Counsellor will give it to Ms. Plegas or Ms. Farah for entry. 

(Fill out all yellow parts on the form.  Please fill out all rows before submitting)