English 20’s Project for EduDeo: Ingredients for the Heart – Cultivating a Sense of Belonging

Belonging is one of those words that resonates deeply with us. Whether it’s belonging to a family, a school community, or a broader spiritual sense of belonging to God, it’s an integral part of human connection. This year, our English 20 class embarked on a FLEx project to explore the idea of belonging and extend it to our peers in Malawi through EduDeo, a Canadian charity focused on educational development and Christian transformation. Here’s what we’ve been up to.

The Project Process: From Creative Reflections to Bake Sales

Our journey began with some reflection and research. We studied EduDeo’s work in Malawi, learning about their mission and the transformative power of education. We also explored Kaitlin Curtice’s book “Glory Happening,” drawing inspiration for our own “Finding God” creative reflections. This process was deeply personal, encouraging us to consider where we find God in our lives and how we can share that with others.

Next, we turned our attention to the practical aspects of campaigning. We designed visuals, wrote letters, prepared for and spoke at a school chapel, planned and executed a bake sale, and sold devotional books we wrote ourselves called “Ingredients for the Heart.” These activities not only raised funds for EduDeo but also helped us develop skills in communication, teamwork, and public speaking. Along the way, we had countless conversations with students, teachers, and other members of our school community, sharing our enthusiasm for the cause.

Reflections on the Project

Throughout this project, we were reminded of the importance of serving others and the joy that comes from giving. We aimed to become more aware of the needs around us, both locally and globally. By raising awareness and encouraging others to contribute, we hoped to create a ripple effect of generosity and support.

For many of us, the project process was a learning experience. We had moments of satisfaction and frustration, and we each learned something about ourselves along the way. Some of us went beyond our comfort zones, while others discovered new talents and interests. Regardless of our roles, we all felt a sense of purpose and belonging as we worked together toward a common goal.

What We Learned About Ourselves

Participating in this project taught us valuable lessons about teamwork and leadership. We had to coordinate with different groups, communicate our ideas effectively, and adapt to changing circumstances. It wasn’t always easy, but the challenges helped us grow.

In terms of personal growth, we explored our own faith and how it connects to the broader community. We learned that small acts of kindness can have a significant impact, and that by giving, we create a sense of belonging not just for others, but for ourselves as well.

Moving Forward: What’s Next?

As we look ahead to future projects, we’re already thinking about what we’d like to do differently. Some of us plan to focus on improving our public speaking skills, while others are interested in finding new ways to engage with our school community. We also hope to continue our connection with EduDeo and find new ways to support their mission.

One thing we all agree on is that this project has been a rewarding experience. It’s given us a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves and to make a positive impact on the world. We’re grateful for the support we’ve received from our school community, and we hope our efforts will inspire others to join us in cultivating a sense of belonging.

Thank you for following our journey, and we look forward to sharing more stories of growth and connection in the future.