The Bachelor of Community and Criminal Justice (BCCJ) program organized a team for this year’s Coldest Night of the Year event, a fundraising walk that supports local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Conestoga’s team raised funds for Supportive Housing of Waterloo (SHOW).
Community Services students raised funds for Supportive Housing of Waterloo
SHOW helps people who have experienced long periods of homelessness. In addition to providing affordable housing, the organization offers programs and supports to help people with addiction, mental health and physical health issues.
22 members, consisting of both students and employees from programs across the School of Community Services, joined the team.
This is the second time a Conestoga team has participated. Previously, only students and employees of the BCCJ program attended the event, but this time the invitation was extended to all Community Services programs. “Programs in the school often address how to support people who are more marginalized. Events like these provide the opportunity to do something that is hands-on,” said Jennifer Robinson, BCCJ professor and program coordinator.
Donations were open for over three weeks, with the group then walking through uptown Waterloo on February 28 with hundreds of others to raise awareness by talking to and collecting donations from passersby. In total, the group raised $2,180 to help address housing insecurity in the community. “Beyond fundraising, the event highlighted the importance of awareness, community-building and meaningful student engagement. Coldest Night of the Year gives our students the chance to be supportive community members,” said Robinson.
Conestoga’s School of Community Services is a leader in translating students’ passions for working with people and making a difference in community into successful careers in human services and community safety. The clusters of Human Services programs offer a full range of programs to suit each student’s interests and career aspirations. Career-ready graduates are well-prepared to address real-world needs and make a difference in today’s rapidly changing world.