COMMUNITY plays an important role in life at St Mary MacKillop College and extends well beyond the perimeter of the school grounds.
The college’s overall mission and values are centred around building positive and respectful relationships with all members of the community while focusing on equality, trust and integrity.
Each year the school takes part in a range of activities and volunteer roles which aim to enhance relationships and give back to the local community, and this year has been no different.
The college has been actively involved in a number of projects which have included volunteering at Swan Hill District Health Op Shop, forming strong relationships with residents of Logan Lodge and students at the Swan Hill Specialist School, and also raising much-needed funds for the Good Friday Appeal.
St Mary MacKillop College teacher Laura Crow said students gained valuable life skills from participating in the various programs.
“Students learn teamwork as they collaborate with peers and community members,” Ms Crow said.
“They develop leadership skills by taking on responsibilities within these projects, boosting their self-confidence and decision-making abilities. Communication skills are honed as they interact with diverse individuals from different backgrounds, fostering empathy and cultural awareness.”
Ms Crow said volunteering also gave the students a sense of purpose.
“The fulfilling feeling of giving back and contributing to society is unparalleled,” she said.
“Community involvement enhances their self-esteem and confidence as they witness and feel the positive impact they can make.
“These experiences help students become well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate, socially aware and prepared for a more connected and meaningful future.”
Leadership skills, communication, problem solving, teamwork and organisational and planning skills have been enhanced through participation in the programs.
“Most importantly, the programs have allowed students to build empathy while showing compassion, respect, reverence and dignity – all of our school values,” Ms Crow said.
Students assist with volunteering at the op shop and meet up with the residents of Logan Lodge to take them on a wheelchair tour of the town on a weekly basis.
Meanwhile, Year 10 students partnered with Swan Hill Specialist School for a four-week Peer Support Program.
Ms Crow said the various initiatives had been mutually beneficial for everyone involved.
“The benefits to the students is heart-warming: they walk away knowing they have made a person smile, giving them their time, care and compassion,” Ms Crow said.
She said it was lovely to see the college’s students form connections with other members of the community.
“With the hospital volunteering at Logan Lodge and the op shop, the older generation really, really values the connection with the youth,” Ms Crow said.
“They love the conversations and banter they have and really appreciate being taken out of the Lodge for a walk, particularly on a warm, sunny day.”
Meanwhile, Ms Crow said the connections made with the students at the Swan Hill Specialist School were incredibly meaningful.
“They provide a valuable opportunity for personal growth, fostering patience, acceptance and a deeper appreciation for diversity.”
