Bur Oak Secondary School students’ creativity and environmental stewardship

By Taylor Farrugia, Development Manager, Sierra Club Canada March 19, 2026

Bur Oak, Westmeath Provincial Park, Ontario pages Bur Oak Secondary School

Photo by / par Ole Hendrickson

At Bur Oak Secondary School, Grade 12 students in the Outdoor Leadership Class recently demonstrated how creativity and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

As part of a class initiative, the students organized a thrift shop fundraiser, collecting and reselling donated items to support Sierra Club Canada’s environmental work. Through their efforts, they raised $586, helping advance initiatives that protect nature and strengthen communities across the country.

Beyond fundraising, the project encouraged students to think critically about consumerism and the impacts of social media. By giving second-hand items new life, the class highlighted how small actions, like choosing to reuse rather than discard, can make a meaningful difference.

We were especially inspired by the students’ leadership, teamwork, and dedication to environmental values. To celebrate their work, Shirley and Hayley joined us on The Environment in Canada podcast to share the story behind the fundraiser. During the episode, they reflected on how the idea for the thrift shop came about, what they learned through the experience, and what gives them hope for the future of environmental action.

Projects like this remind us that young people are already leading the way toward a more sustainable future. By combining practical action with a commitment to protecting the planet, these students are helping build the culture of care and responsibility that our environment needs.

We extend our sincere thanks to the students of Bur Oak Secondary School and to Kevin Lau for their initiative and generosity. Their efforts show that when young people take action, the impact can reach far beyond the classroom.

You can listen to the full conversation here [or below]!

Thrift Shopping, Environment, Social Media, & Youth Supporting Sierra Club Canada at School

The Environment in Canada Podcast episode 103 on thrift shopping, the environment, youth and social media. You can listen to the episode on The Harbinger Media Network, IHeart Radio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or our website below: