From September 14 to 15, 2024, students from Dewey Institute participated in their first local volunteer experience in Bracebridge, a city located in the Muskoka region of Ontario, where their school is based. They joined the annual Bracebridge Fall Fair, an autumn harvest festival, serving as volunteers. Their primary responsibilities included managing traffic and assisting with parking for event attendees. This opportunity not only allowed the students to give back to society but also helped them integrate into the local community while gaining a deeper understanding of Canadian culture and customs.

The Bracebridge Fall Fair is one of the region’s long-standing community traditions, with a history spanning over a hundred years. Every year, it draws large crowds with its diverse and exciting offerings. The festival features a variety of activities, including an amusement park, food stalls, handmade craft booths, farm animal interactions, and agricultural machinery displays. Local cultural and entertainment events are also part of the fair, with performances organized by community groups, along with displays showcasing the area’s agricultural heritage, such as the SuperDogs Show, sheep shearing competitions, and extreme cowboy races. While fulfilling their volunteer duties, our students also had the chance to enjoy these activities, taking a break from their academic workload to relax and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere.

For the students of Dewey Institute, this volunteer experience was exceptionally meaningful. For many, it was their first time participating in such a community event. Through active involvement, they not only improved their language and communication skills but also gained confidence and adaptability in unfamiliar environments. The volunteer work allowed them to engage directly with local residents, and in the process, they learned about Canadian customs, lifestyles, and social etiquette. This cultural exchange and immersion laid a solid foundation for their future studies abroad, enriching their overall experience.

In addition to enhancing their personal skills, this volunteer activity also helped students foster a sense of social responsibility and teamwork. While managing traffic and parking at the fair, the students had to collaborate and divide tasks to ensure everything ran smoothly. These hands-on responsibilities not only tested their adaptability but also honed their teamwork and cooperation skills, preparing them for future challenges in group settings.

Overall, the participation of Dewey Institute students in the Bracebridge Fall Fair as volunteers was not only a deep interaction with the local community but also a valuable opportunity for learning and personal growth. Their volunteer service was met with widespread praise from the community, with local residents offering high praise and appreciation for the students’ efforts. In the future, such volunteer activities will continue to be an important avenue for students to integrate into local society and enrich their study abroad experience.

The following section contains student testimonials

Daniel Cui

I truly felt that this volunteer experience was both enjoyable and meaningful. It was my first time participating in volunteer service, and through this experience, I learned how to communicate with strangers and improve my interpersonal skills. This journey has helped me grow in many ways, and I look forward to more opportunities in the future to serve others and enrich myself.

Orlando Lin

This volunteer activity was profoundly significant to me. I understand that, as members of society, it is our duty to contribute in every way we can. Only by doing so can we cultivate a stronger sense of social responsibility. This experience not only gave me valuable lessons but also provided deep educational insights, motivating me to continue fulfilling my social responsibilities and giving back to the community in the future.

Peter Xu

I believe this volunteer experience was deeply meaningful. It not only helped improve my spoken English but also allowed me to immerse myself in the local cultural atmosphere. The experience was enriching and unforgettable.