Mercy College has recently introduced a program of Community Service in Years Eight and Nine that leads into Social Justice Action in Years 10, 11 and 12. This has been designed to help students develop additional skills, a positive attitude and getting into the habit of regularly helping others.

All Year Eights participate in the Love in Action program that is focussed on students making a difference at home. Love begins at home is the theme and the students give their time and energy to help others.

The students have been giving Mum and Dad a break by regularly helping with household activities like cooking, washing dishes and clothes, cleaning and even gardening. The student response to the program has been enthusiastic and parents have often commented on how great it is that their children are helping and making a difference.

Next year in Year Nine students will have the opportunity to help their extended family, close family friends and neighbours by making a regular commitment to providing some service.

“The Mercy College motto Love in Action is the core of who we are at Mercy and the community service program has raised awareness among the students of social justice issues” said Mr Tom Gravestock the community service co-ordinator. “After tasting the fruits of community service and social justice many students volunteer with organisations such as the Red Cross and the Cerebral Palsy Association” he added.