External Communications and Opportunities

FIFSW Queer Student Social

On behalf of the Student Ambassadors, they would like to invite you to the FIFSW Queer Student Social:

Join us to connect and socialize with fellow 2SLGBTQIA+ students and allies at FIFSW. This will be an open space to talk about whatever’s on our minds, whether it’s new celebrity gossip or consulting about a client at practicum. Light refreshments will be served. 

• When: Tuesday, October 27th from 12pm-2pm

• Where: Room 222 | FIFSW Main Building

• Registration: RSVP: Queer Student Social – Fill out form

Be sure to complete the registration form by Monday, October 26 to secure your spot. If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with our Student Ambassadors directly at ambassadors.fifsw@utoronto.ca. 

Co-Curricular Community Engaged Learning: Alternative Reading Week

Join hundreds of University of Toronto students volunteering with local community organizations during your winter reading week. As you work in your project team, you’ll make meaningful contributions to communities, build new relationships, and deepen your understanding of social issues in our city.

ARW offers both virtual and in-person opportunities, allowing you to build your network and gain valuable experience. You will also be eligible for CCR credit for your participation.

There are two ways to participate:

1. Apply to become a Project Leader. 

• Submit a Project Leader application on Folio by October 9, 2026. Attend monthly training October 2026 – January 2027 and contribute approximately 26-28 hours during Reading Week. Approximately 40-45 hours of commitment.

2. Register as a Participant.

• Join a group of your peers February 16-19, 2027, to complete a project that supports the work of a local community. Approximately 26-28 hours commitment. Register to be an ARW Participant on Folio here.

Please contact Janet Fitzsimmons, Coordinator, Co-curricular Learning at janet.fitzsimmons@utoronto.ca with any questions.

Co-Curricular Community Engaged Learning: Seeds of Change

Are you interested in advancing food justice in Toronto? Through the Seeds of Change program, you will volunteer with a local nonprofit or grassroots organization working to address food security and food justice issues.

Learn from community leaders, engage in guided reflections, and connect with other students who are passionate about building more equitable food systems.

Through this program, you will:

• Learn about food justice issues in Toronto and how community organizations are supporting food access across the city

• Develop your reflective practice and deepen your understanding of yourself, your values, and your role in community change

• Build connections with community leaders and professionals working in the food justice sector

• Gain hands-on experience, explore potential career paths, and contribute to meaningful community initiatives

Learn more and register for the program on Folio here! Please note that community partner requirements will vary. Additional community partners will be added in the Winter term as well.

Please contact Catie Thompson, Coordinator, Co-curricular Learning, at catie.thompson@utoronto.ca with any questions.

Engaging In Difficult Conversations: A Simulation Learning Experience for MSW Students

What is it?

• MSW students are invited to take part in an interactive simulation experience exploring the intersection of civil discourse and social work competency. Through a realistic scenario, guided by FIFSW facilitators, students will have the opportunity to practice staying grounded during difficult conversations, navigating tension and uncomfortable moments. 

• Two sessions will be offered, one for Year I students and one for Year 2 / Advanced Standing Students.

Year 2 & Advanced Standing Session

Date: Friday, October 23rd

Time: 9:00 AM - 1:15 PM (includes a 1-hour pre-briefing session)

Location: Room 422

Format: Interactive Simulation (no prior experience needed)

Light snacks provided

Bonus: Participants are eligible to receive a certificate of completion for taking part

Please log your intent to participate (if you have not done so already) by filling out this form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=JsKqeAMvTUuQN7RtVsVSECskSwNcYw1JsYC9KayYm15UODRYWVhaSVFNT0RaS0ZORU5EVEcxVFlFMC4u&route=shorturl

For any inquiries, please reach out to Dr Mak, Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream (carolyn.mak@utoronto.ca).

Health and Wellness Centre (UTSG): Suicide Prevention Trainings

The Health and Wellness Centre (UTSG) is offering two free suicide prevention trainings for UofT St. George students. Please see below: 

1) safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training

What is it?

• safeTALK is an evidence-based suicide prevention training workshop designed by LivingWorks. This beginner friendly training is meant for anyone, regardless of their education or background, who wants to learn how to effectively reach out to someone thinking about suicide and help them keep safe by promptly connecting them to further support. 

Date: Wednesday, October 14

Time: 9am - 1pm 

Location: Student Commons (230 College St.), Room 556/558 

This event is free, and you can register by clicking here.

2) ASIST Suicide Intervention Training

What is it? 

LivingWorks ASIST (applied suicide interventions skills training) is a 2-day, interactive and practice-based suicide first aid course that is designed to help participants learn the skills to provide a suicide first-aid intervention, work with persons having thoughts of suicide develop a personalized safety plan to keep safe-for-now, and connect with further help.  

Date: Thursday, October 29 AND Friday, October 30

Time: 9am - 5pm (both days) 

Location: Student Commons (230 College St.)

This event is free, and you can register by clicking here.