Students are required to complete a minimum 40 hours of community involvement activities as part of the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students working towards their OSSD should make sure they meet these graduation requirements in time for their graduating year.
Students can start accumulating their community involvement hours in the summer before entering Grade 9.
It is important that students and their families know if an activity is eligible for community involvement hours before participating.
When looking for opportunities, students should:
- make sure they know which activities qualify for the community involvement requirement
- check the school board’s website (here) for a list of eligible and ineligible activities, as well as procedures and forms to help them record hours and find volunteer activities
- ask their principal or guidance counsellor for more information
Students under 18 years old should consult with their parents to plan and select their community involvement activities, according to Ministry guidelines.
Students should also speak to their guidance counsellor or principal about other ways their school could allow them to earn community involvement hours this year.
The community involvement requirement is designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop awareness and understanding about civic responsibility. By being involved in their communities and serving others, students can develop transferable skills and explore different sectors and potential career opportunities as well as deepening their understanding of their role in society.
Additional Resources:
Student Guide to Community Involvement - printable
Community Involvement Form
Get Your High School Volunteer Hours (Ministry of Education site)
Ministry of Education PPM 124 - OSSD Requirement: Community Involvement Activities