When people talk about community, they often refer to the individuals who have the most to offer. But some of the most powerful acts of generosity come from those who know what it means to need help.
That is what made the recent CEFO fundraisers at our adult schools so moving.
Across St. Nicholas Adult High School and St. Joseph Adult School, adult learners and staff came together to raise $3,017.80 in support of the Catholic Education Foundation of Ottawa. For many of the learners involved, this was not just about baking cookies or selling muffins; it was about much more. It was about giving back to a school system that has helped them build a new chapter in their lives.
Supporting CEFO
CEFO plays a vital role within the Ottawa Catholic School Board by providing support to students and their families who are experiencing financial hardship. That support can mean food on the table, warm winter clothing, school supplies, or the chance to participate fully in school life. These are not extras. They are the things that enable students to feel safe and learn.
By choosing CEFO as the recipient of their fundraising efforts, both school communities chose to lift up others across our system.
Community Fundraisers That Made a Difference
At St. Joseph Adult School in Vanier, learners and staff from the Adult ESL and LINC programs hosted a bake sale that raised $2,063.50. Learners prepared the food themselves and proudly shared what they had made, turning a simple fundraiser into a celebration of culture, connection, and care.
At St. Nicholas Adult High School, learners and staff from the Adult ESL and Adult Learning and Skills Development programs raised $954.30 through their own bake sale. The halls were filled with the smell of fresh baking and something even better, a real sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Building Bridges Through Generosity
Many adult learners at our schools are newcomers to Canada, refugees, or individuals rebuilding their lives through education. They know what it feels like to start over. Their decision to give back to fellow students facing hardship speaks to the deep compassion that exists within these school communities.
It also reflects our Spiritual Theme this year, Open Doors, Build Bridges, Nourish New Beginnings. These fundraisers did precisely that. They opened doors for others, built bridges between learners and families, and helped nourish new beginnings across the OCSB.
Marianne Kayed, Manager of Continuing and Community Education, shared,
“We are so proud of our adult learners for giving back to the OCSB community. These fundraisers brought people together in a powerful way. Their generosity and their willingness to support others say so much about who they are.”
Thank You to Our Adult School Communities
To the staff and learners at St. Nicholas Adult High School and St. Joseph Adult School, thank you for organizing, baking, and choosing CEFO from the very start.
You reminded all of us that community is not about how much you have. It is about how much heart you bring.
Learn more about CEFO and how you can make a difference!
