Operation GIVE fosters spirit of volunteerism in youth in Whitby, Oshawa, Ajax and Pickering

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Published September 9, 2021 at 11:50 am

Durham Regional Police Service’s Youth in Policing (YIP) initiative hosted the first Operation GIVE event last month to promote “intergenerational connections” between youth and the elderly and to foster a spirit of volunteerism in youth.

The virtual event was made possible through a partnership with Chartwell Retirement Residences and DRPS said it was an opportunity for students to learn how to give back to vulnerable people in the community.

During the event, the 64 students participated in an origami card-making workshop with Sending Sunshine, a non-profit organization, got involved in panel discussions and live virtual tours, and had one-on-one conversations with residents.

A highlight of the day was the volunteerism workshop, said a DRPS spokesperson.

“It was an opportunity for students to learn how to provide support to the elderly in different ways, develop empathy and be inspired to get involved in the community while using kindness through goodwill and advocacy.”

Operation GIVE (Giving Individuals Valuable Essentials) also allowed residents at Chartwell to share experiences and inform youth on the various difficulties seniors can endure.

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