Documentary filmmaking was part of a month-long project for grade 10 civics students as they competed for a $5,000 donation for a local grassroots charity of their choice.
With an emphasis on technology in the classroom, students from civics classes, led by teachers Len Gurr, Jeff LaForge, and Nicholas Day, formed groups and created videos showcasing a local charity they wished to help. When all the marking was said and done, it was the top three video productions that made it to the Wirth Theatre/Ketchum Auditorium for debut this morning.
Students and faculty gathered to decide who among the finalists would be awarding their charity with $5,000 from the Youth Philanthropy Infinitive (YPI), the brainchild of the Toskan Casale Foundation.
All three videos were emotionally charged and well produced, but it was the documentary made by William Deo, Basel Arslan, Patrick Turner, and Joseph Yazdani that really moved the judges. Their charity of choice, 360°Kids, spoke to the necessity of helping youth and families in crisis. The organization is committed to delivering programs and support services to at-risk youth. This year alone they will serve over 1,300 families and over 2,800 youth from every corner of the world.
“Collectively the boys raised awareness and provided a much needed voice for people working tirelessly to help those who are dealing with significant issues,” said Mr. Gurr. “It is global citizenship at its finest.”
Since its inception in 2002, YPI has helped students donate more than $6 million to charities worldwide. YPI offers students a special experience that engages them in social change and empowers them to participate in growing compassionate communities.
St. Andrew’s College became involved in 2002, and since then students have raised more than $50,000 for York Region charities through the YPI program.
Story by Nicolette Fleming
