Where the learners are: CapU’s Community Development and Outreach program
For over 30 years, Capilano University’s Community Development and Outreach (CDO) department has been making a significant impact by reaching learners that are not served by campus based programs through partnerships with community organizations across the North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Sea-to-Sky corridor and Vancouver’s inner city.
“The community development approach is about going to where the learners are and to be in places they can access,” said Emily Hunter, a faculty member who oversees the CDO’s initiatives and programming at the Carnegie Learning Centre in the Downtown Eastside.
The Centre delivers a variety of programming including English language support, art, mindfulness and digital literacy. Women only programming is available on Fridays for self-identified women.
"We work hard to provide a safe and supportive learning space for folks who may have had negative experiences with education,” Hunter explained, noting that the department’s mission is to serve individuals often overlooked by traditional educational structures.
For Parnit Kaur, an international student and student digital ambassador for the Centre for Teaching and Learning working towards an Associate of Arts degree in psychology, volunteering at the Carnegie Learning Centre has broadened her cultural understanding, an essential asset for her future in counselling and psychology.
“Because I get to meet new people from different parts of the world, I’ve had to learn to be a good listener and have become more patient and observant,” said Kaur. “At first I was nervous, but everyone here is so humble and welcoming.”
Kaur has taken this opportunity to fully immerse herself as a volunteer and her enthusiasm has not gone unnoticed.
“Parnit is very impressive,” said Hunter, noting it can sometimes be challenging when working with people who access the Centre. “She knows how to set strong boundaries while being passionate and hard working.”
Aside from her interest in psychology, Kaur also has a keen interest in acting and will star as the Tin Gal in the Centre’s production of The Mayor of Oz, a special retelling of The Wizard of Oz, set in the Downtown Eastside community.
“I’ll never say no to an acting opportunity,” said Kaur. “And I really wanted to play this role because I relate to this character because she is kind, gentle and responsible.”
The play will be on Saturday, November 2 at the Carnegie Learning Centre and admission is free.
Submitted by: Communications