Halton students study the real impact of mandatory volunteer hours
A new study is examining how mandatory volunteer work affects students in the Halton Region. The project, led by Community Development Halton (CDH), involves surveys from local pupils about their experiences. Funding comes from the Burlington Foundation, with the initiative set to conclude in early 2026. CDH has operated in Burlington for over 40 years, yet many still consider it an overlooked asset. The organisation runs a volunteer portal, helping residents find opportunities and register as volunteers. It also plays a key role in community planning across the region.
For this project, students designed a questionnaire and collected responses from peers. They used postal codes to track participants and gather data on the impact of the 40-hour volunteer requirement for graduation. By July 2025, 225 surveys had been completed. Rishia Burke leads CDH as Executive Director, supported by a strong Board of Directors. Heather Johnson, Director of Volunteer Halton, also contributes to the initiative. The organisation’s long-standing reputation as one of the province’s most productive not-for-profits adds weight to the study’s findings.
The survey results will provide insights into how mandatory volunteering shapes students’ experiences. With the project funded until February 2026, CDH aims to deliver a detailed report on its impact. The findings could influence future policies on community service requirements in schools.
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