By LUKE VOOGT
St Ignatius’ “Architects for Change” won recognition from Geelong Council recently, for their service to the community.
The VCAL group won the Community Citizenship Award at Council’s Youth Awards ceremony on 8 April.
“It was really nice recognition for what the students are doing,” said college VCAL co-ordinator Kirsty Allan.
Among the winning group were several local students, such as Jordyn Taskin – Ocean Grove, and Kaycee Johnson – Drysdale.
Kaycee said it was a huge surprise to win the award.
“Having a look at the other names on the brochure, it was impressive that a high school from Drydale won,” she said.
The group washed teachers’ cars last year, raising more than $300 for Timor-Leste schools.
They also held a 12-hour walkathon for two specials-needs schools closer to home – Barwon Valley and the Blackwood outdoor education centre.
The students donated their time too, cleaning Blackwood in preparation for bushfire season and working with Nelson Park Special School to create inclusive games.
As well as learning job skills, Kaycee and Jordyn said the group strove to get involved in the community.
A teacher named the group the Architects for Change to promote its work in the community and combat the stigma surrounding VCAL.
Recently, they’ve been promoting their work to other students.
“We want to show how VCAL works and what we actually do,” Jordyn said.
