Gryphons in Service at Redfern ParkFest

October 5, 2021

Academics

GNS

Some of our international students took time out of their day to volunteer at the Redfern ParkFest on September 26. As part of the HeadStart program, the school has always tried to give international students a leg up in all aspects of Gryphon life, including service. In the past, students have volunteered at Haliburton Farms, but because of quarantine procedures it wasn’t an option this year.

Fortunately, the city gave the South Jubilee Neighbourhood Association the go-ahead to run Redfern ParkFest and they were in need of volunteers. International students from both Gryphon House and the Family Boarding Program participated.

Despite the questionable weather, students arrived on time and with a smile! Many chose to stay beyond their allotted times to help out their replacement volunteers. Students controlled the flow of kids through the bouncy castles and made sure everyone was safe and had fun.

“It went great, other than the rain,” said Kristina Kraft ’23. “It was really fun. I was there with a friend and I was able to get some service hours and I got to talk to a few new people I haven’t met before.”

Many of the students relished the opportunity to chat and interact with little ones from around the neighbourhood.

“It was really fun, and there were a lot of families with little children, which was really nice seeing them all enjoy the bouncy castles,” said Sally Shin ’24. “For me it was a meaningful experience to get involved in a community festival.”

Way to go Jasmin, Caitlin, Joshua, Yunji, Sally, Rose, Lily, Luis, Naoko, Kristina, Ling Yin and Amelie for showing that Gryphon spirit!