On Friday March 18, grade six students from Strathcona-Tweedsmuir school in Okotoks pitched to the Calgary Foundation in support of various philanthropic causes and organizations. The youth had been preparing for the dragon’s den style pitch for the last three months. The project was on voice and power and is part of their Primary Years Program (a culmination of knowledge and skills learned in elementary school). They conducted their own research, chose an organization and reached out the organization for a fieldtrip and visit.
Immigrant Services Calgary’s outreach department was contacted by an inspiring group of girls (pictured above from left to right, Quinn, Emeren and Lucy) who decided they wanted to focus on immigrants and settlement. Through a series of discussions with the outreach staff, the girls were able to put together a pitch. They visited the agency on February 4th and were given a tour of the agency where they had meetings with representatives from all three departments.
On Mach 24, the school organized an assembly where it was announced that all of the groups would receive 1000.00 for their respective organizations while the top three speeches would be awarded $5000.00 for their organizations. The group advocating on behalf of ISC was among the top three best pitches and the agency received $5000.00 from Calgary Foundation. This is not the agency’s first time working with Strathcona-Tweedsmuir. Last year, we participated in their Diversity Week where we organized panel of speakers who shared their immigration stories with the youth. We continue to deliver presentations to schools across the city as part of our advocacy and public education efforts. We work with youth to expand their knowledge and understanding of the barriers facing newcomers as well as support them on their social action projects. This is a great example of youth engaging in advocacy and connecting themselves to the wider community.
