Making a Difference
For almost two decades at RSGC, Grade 9 students have been involved in the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), a high school program that grows compassionate communities by connecting youth to social issues, local charities and philanthropy.
The boys select a local charity to research and present to their peers, and student and faculty judges. One team is awarded a $5,000 grant for the charity. In 16 years, RSGC has contributed $80,000 in grants to deserving charities.
The team of Jacob Buchan, Joey Lisser and Max Van Duynhoven won the grant for The Peer Project, a peer-mentoring program for newcomer and at-risk kids.
“We chose The Peer Project because we knew we wanted a charity that helps children,” said Max, who initially thought of YPI as just any other project, but then realized the impact they could make. “After we got in touch with the charity, we knew how much the money could help them.”
It was a difficult decision for the judges to make and the boys sat anxiously while they waited to hear the winner.
“I was so nervous to hear who won and when I learned that it was us, I was shocked,” said Max. “All I could think about was how The Peer Project could really benefit with that grant.”
The boys went straight to Mr. Beatty’s office to call their contact at the charity.
“I was surprised when I got the call because it came out of the blue, but then I wasn’t surprised because Jacob, Max and Joey were one of the best groups I’ve met with in a long time,” said Ed Carlson, The Peer Project’s Director of Development. “I’m really proud of them.”
Ed says the grant will likely be used to train volunteer mentors and match children from their long waiting list.
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Royal St. George's College is an independent school for boys located in The Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The school admits boys from Grades 3 through 12. Our mission is to challenge and inspire each of our students to become the best version of himself.