Service: Sample CAS Project

Stages of Service-Learning Community Garden Project

SDG 2: Zero Hunger, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture, can involve a wide range of service projects that raise awareness, provide direct assistance, and address systemic issues related to food insecurity.

Project Overview

Students will collaborate with local organizations to establish a community garden that addresses food insecurity in their area. This project integrates academic learning with meaningful service, fostering skills in collaboration, systems thinking, environmental sustainability and Global Citizenship.

1. Investigation

• Identify Needs:
  Students research the issue of food insecurity in their community, gathering data on its impact and identifying areas where access to fresh produce is limited.
• Community Input:
  Partner with local food banks, gardening experts, and community members to understand their needs and gather ideas.
• Classroom Connection:
  Link the project to academic subjects such as biology (plant growth), economics (resource management), or social studies (community development).

2. Preparation

• Set Goals:
  Define project objectives, such as creating a garden that produces fresh vegetables for donation or teaching gardening skills to community members.
• Create a Plan:
  Develop a timeline, budget, and list of required resources (seeds, tools, soil). Assign student roles such as project manager, researcher, or outreach coordinator.
• Partner Collaboration:
  Coordinate with local stakeholders to secure land, gather materials, and recruit volunteers.

3. Action

• Direct Service:
  Students establish the garden, planting seeds, and maintaining the space. They also organize workshops to teach gardening techniques to community members.
• Indirect Service:
  Some students focus on creating informational materials about the benefits of gardening and sustainable agriculture.
• Advocacy:
  Raise awareness of food insecurity through social media campaigns and presentations to the school or local government.

4. Reflection

• In-Class Discussions:
  Reflect on challenges, successes, and personal growth.
• Managebac Reflections:
  Students write about how the project impacted their understanding of the Global issue of food security and their role in addressing community needs. LO 6
• Creative Expression:
  Share experiences through art, videos, or blogs that showcase the project’s impact.

5. Demonstration/Celebration - April 10 All students share CAS Project as part of CAS Exhibition Presentation

• Present Results:
  Host a community event where students share the garden’s progress, the amount of produce grown, and the impact on food insecurity.
• Celebrate Success:
  Recognize student efforts and partnerships with certificates, presentations, and a garden harvest celebration.
• Sustainability Plan:
  Discuss next steps for maintaining the garden and continuing the project beyond its initial phase.

Learning Outcomes:

LO 3 Students can articulate the stages from conceiving an idea to executing a plan for a CAS Action Project. 

LO 6 Students are able to identify and demonstrate their understanding of global issues, make responsible decisions, and take appropriate action in response to the issue either locally, nationally or internationally.