See the highlights from the Alumni Impact Survey on how Pathways alumni see a clear connection between program participation and civic engagement.
Encouraging youth to take an active role in shaping their community’s future creates compounding societal benefits as well as a profound impact on each young person’s trajectory. Participation in civic activities improves young people’s overall health and well-being, and helps to strengthen core competencies for success such collaboration and problem-solving.*
In March 2023, Pathways Canada conducted an Alumni Impact Survey to gather information about the long-term impacts of the Pathways Program. Findings from the survey provide important insights into how Pathways alumni are giving back to their communities and see a clear connection between program participation and civic engagement.
Out of 1,478 alumni participants, 50% stated that participating in the Pathways Program has motivated them to give back to their community through actions including volunteering, donating, and helping their neighbours.
33% of alumni reported participating in volunteer work in the last 12 months, with more than half of that group volunteering an average of one to ten hours per week.
How Pathways alumni see a clear connection between program participation and civic engagement
1. Pathways alumni see Pathways staff and volunteers as role models for giving back
“Participating in the Pathways Program has been instrumental in shaping my decision to give back to my community. Through the program, I have gained valuable skills, knowledge, and mentorship that have helped me advance in my career. However, what really stands out to me is the emphasis the program places on community engagement […] Through the Pathways Program, I have come to appreciate the importance of community engagement and its many benefits. As a result, I am committed to continuing to give back to my community and making a positive impact on the lives of others.” –Alumni respondent
The caring adult role models that youth meet through the Pathways Program help demonstrate what “showing up” for their community looks like. Pathways alumni shared how the support and dedication of program staff and volunteers throughout their high school journey have inspired them to give back and prioritize opportunities to volunteer even when balancing post-secondary and work responsibilities.
2. The support system and opportunities found from the Pathways Program create feelings of “paying it forward”
“I received a lot of help, mentorship, and work opportunities through Pathways. Pathways facilitated my journey through high school and I feel the need to pay back that favor by contributing to my community.” –Alumni respondent
The Pathways Program helps youth access opportunities that they may not otherwise experience. Alumni shared that academic and employability supports and connection with mentors helped facilitate their journey through high school and reach their goals, inspiring them to give back to their community.
3. Participation in the program encouraged civic engagement and community leadership skills
“All the volunteering opportunities I was given allowed me to recognize my passion for helping others. I’ve always wanted to work with people but the opportunities I was given allowed me to take it a step further. All the mentoring workshops also impacted my way of thinking.” –Alumni participant
The Pathways Program engages youth in opportunities to deepen leadership and advocacy skills, empowering them to take an active role in shaping their own communities. Pathways alumni shared how the program helped instill a more empathetic and open worldview, and gave them opportunities to learn about issues that affect their community and how they can help contribute to solutions.
4. The program’s positive impact provides motivation in making a difference for others
“The Pathways Program changed my life in every way imaginable. If I had not been guided with homework help and weekly mentorship, I do not think I would be a nurse today. I know there are kids out there that are just like me. A little bit of guidance goes a long way.” –Alumni respondent
Through Pathways, youth are connected with a myriad of experiences that foster their personal, academic, and professional development and help pave the way for future success. Pathways alumni explained how the growth that they experienced during the program helped them realize the positive impact one individual can have, motivating them to make a difference for others in their community.
*Arriagada, P., Khanam, F., & Sano, Y. (n.d.). Portrait of youth in Canada: Data report Chapter 6: Political participation, civic engagement and caregiving among youth in Canada. Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/pub/42-28-0001/2021001/article/00006-eng.pdf?st=qXQETFbr .