Inspired to Serve: Student Initiative Makes a Difference
A trio of senior students are demonstrating what it means to Be the Good, by serving and leading in their community following a successful initiative that inspired them to give more. Luca Tatone, Lucas Connop, and Christian Pavlovic, Grade 12 students at St. Michael’s College School (SMCS), recently launched a shoebox drive to create a meaningful way of giving back to children and families at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. “I volunteered at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital during March Break as a FIRST Robotics camp volunteer,” says Tatone. “I wanted to find a different and more hands-on way to give back, and the experience allowed me to support children while contributing to an environment focused on learning, growth, and inclusion. The experience was very eye-opening and humbling, as it showed me the daily challenges many children and families face. It helped me gain a deeper appreciation for resilience and the importance of compassion.” Connop, who has also been a volunteer for the past two summers, adds, “Volunteering at Holland Bloorview left a significant mark on my character. My experience taught me that, regardless of what they have been through, everyone has the strength within them to persevere. Seeing the progress and growth in the patients truly inspired me to attack my own challenges with the same attitude.” Their goals for the shoebox drive were to raise awareness within our school community about Holland Bloorview and give back to the children and families in a tangible way. “We wanted to move beyond fundraising alone and instead offer something personal and thoughtful that could directly bring comfort and joy to the children,” says Pavlovic. Each shoebox contained an assortment of five items, such as small toys, art supplies, and comfort items designed to be inclusive for children with varying needs and abilities. Students participating in the fundraiser
