Link Crew Gives Back
By Ms. Romanowich
This past week, our Link Crew leaders and Grade 9 students came together for a meaningful and hands-on initiative focused on the importance of giving back to the community. The event was designed not only to introduce Grade 9s to volunteerism, but also to show them how small acts of kindness can make a real and lasting impact.
Throughout the event, Grade 9 students rotated through four different “jobs,” each contributing to a larger goal: creating thoughtful gift packages for seniors at Richview Manor.
Throughout the event, Grade 9 students rotated through four different “jobs,” each contributing to a larger goal: creating thoughtful gift packages for seniors at Richview Manor.
One group focused on baking, preparing homemade treats to include in the gift bags. Another group worked on assembling the gift baskets, carefully organizing each item to ensure every package felt personal and complete. A third group wrote heartfelt cards, taking the time to craft kind, uplifting messages for the seniors who would receive them. Finally, a fourth group helped with organizing and packaging, making sure everything was ready for delivery.
Each role played an important part in the overall success of the initiative, showing students that every big or small contribution alike matters when working toward a shared purpose.
The highlight of the event was the delivery of the gift bags to the residents of Richview Manor. This moment brought the project full circle, allowing students to see the direct impact of their efforts. The smiles and sense of accomplishment felt by our Grade 9s served as a powerful reminder of how meaningful simple gestures can be, especially for members of the community who may feel isolated.
In addition to the hands-on activities, students were introduced to the broader importance of volunteerism through a thoughtfully designed brochure. This brochure outlined why giving back is essential - for building empathy, connection, and personal growth. It also provided students with practical ideas for how they can get involved in their own communities, including volunteering at local shelters, community centers, food banks, and senior homes.
By combining action with education, this Link Crew event helped Grade 9 students begin to see themselves as active and capable members of their community. It encouraged them to look beyond themselves and recognize the value of kindness, service, and human connection.
Overall, the event was a powerful introduction to volunteerism, one that will hopefully inspire students to continue giving back long after the day itself.
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
