Brentwood Gives Back: From Classroom to Community

10 April 2025Ruby M, Allard ‘25

On Saturday, textbooks were swapped with toolkits as students ventured into the Cowichan Valley for the School’s annual Service Day. From beach cleanups to local shelters, students rolled up their sleeves and stepped into the community with one mission in mind: to give back.  

This year marked the 32nd Annual Brentwood Service Day, an event that is deeply rooted in the school’s values of community service and engagement. Formerly known as Charity Work Day, the event was renamed in 2023 to better reflect the purpose of the day – service. Despite the change in name, the essence of the day remains the same: a heartfelt commitment to giving back and making a positive impact. Addison C, Allard ‘25, B-Well Captain, shares that “The day was very successful and could not have been done without the amazing cooperation of the students”.

A total of 62 different locations welcomed Brentwood students and staff this year. From outdoor projects to local organizations, our community presence was felt far and wide. Isaac R, Whittall ‘25 says that “Service day this year was a lot of fun, and it is always nice to get out and help the community we live in”. 

Donations raised as part of the initiative are making a big impact, supporting a diverse range of local charities including the Rotary Club, CMS Foodbank, KidSport, Malahat Nation, and the Hiiye’yu Lelum Society (Friendship House). Each of these organizations plays a vital role in building a stronger, more connected community, and it is an honour for Brentwood to contribute to their missions.

Ms Murray, B-Well sponsor and Herculean event organizer, states that she is “so proud of our students this year – they were incredible ambassadors for our school, and the impact they had on the community members they worked with cannot be underestimated”. 

The day was a powerful reminder of the difference that can be made when a community comes together with intention and heart. 

Ruby M, Allard ‘25